Research Assistant, Huth Initiative Political Economy; HINPE

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Salary from £36,513 to £41,565 p.a. inclusive with potential to progress to £44,468 p.a. inclusive of London allowance

This is a fixed term appointment for 12 months initially, with possibility of extension (subject to funding). The start date is flexible but will be no later than 1st September 2026.

We are seeking a motivated, independent, and highly skilled Pre-Doctoral Research Assistant to work under the direction of Professor Sir Tim Besley on the Huth Initiative for a New Political Economy (HINPE). The HINPE is a major new research programme at LSE that brings together leading academics to develop the ideas, policies and institutions for a fairer and more sustainable economic system.

The Initiative includes both a core research programme and a Policy Hub focused on translating ideas into practice, and is designed to grow over time into a permanent Institute for a New Political Economy. The main purpose of the role will be to support Sir Tim Besley’s research programme in the field of political economy undertaking tasks as directed, including managing and analysing data sets, overseeing projects, communicating with co‑authors, and liaising with data providers.

It is also expected that the successful candidate will become an active participant in the research programme.

The successful candidate will:

• Manage and analyse data sets.
• Oversee projects.
• Communicate with co‑authors.
• Liaise with data providers.
• Participate actively in the research programme.

The successful candidates should have a completed Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) and/or a completed (or nearly completed) Master’s degree in economics, political science, or other closely related discipline and will have familiarity with relevant literatures and research methods in economics and political economy. The candidate must also have existing experience with (or a proven capacity to learn) STATA, Python and using Large Language models.

We offer an occupational pension scheme, generous annual leave and excellent training and development opportunities.

For further information about the post, please see the how to apply document, job description and person specification. To apply for this post, please click the 'Apply' button above. If you have technical queries with applying on the online system, please use the “contact us” links at the bottom of the LSE Jobs page. For any queries about the role, please email

The closing date for receipt of applications is 15th February 2026 (23.59 UK time). Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications.

£36,513 to £41,565 p.a. inclusive with potential to progress to £44,468 p.a. inclusive of London allowance