Pre-Doctoral Research Specialist, Real Estate Center Wharton School

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. Penn ranks among the top universities in the U.S. News & World Report. With 12 schools, Penn offers opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, guided by an interdisciplinary approach to scholarship. Penn has been recognized as one of America’s Best Large Employers in 2023 by Forbes.

Penn offers a unique working environment in Philadelphia. The campus provides access to educational, cultural, and recreational activities. Philadelphia’s historical significance and cultural offerings create a vibrant living and working environment.

The University offers a competitive benefits package including healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and families, retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, health and wellness programs, and more.

Pre-Doctoral Research Specialist, Real Estate Center at the Wharton School

Research Specialist A

Founded in 1881, the Wharton School is shaping the future of business with campuses in Philadelphia and San Francisco. Wharton has over 850 staff, more than 235 professors, and more than 5,000 students across undergraduate, MBA, executive MBA, and doctoral programs. Wharton Executive Education serves 13,000 professionals annually, with a global alumni network exceeding 104,000. The successful candidate will support faculty research in real estate, public policy, and urban economics, including data collection, design, implementation, and maintenance of moderately complex databases;

applying access methods, validation checks, and statistical methods; performing statistical and econometric analyses; writing research reports; and providing programming support. Independent thinking, strong economics understanding, and self-motivation are valued. Ability to analyze data requirements, maintain database dictionaries, and integrate systems through database design is essential. Proficiency in database management is required.

This is a full-time, limited-term position typically intended for recent graduates seeking predoctoral research experience. The position is designed for a duration of 2 years and cannot be extended beyond the initial term. The start date is July 1, 2026. Annual salary is in the range of $61,000 - 63,000 plus benefits.

Qualifications: BA/BS in Economics, Statistics, Finance, Mathematics, Computer Science or another closely-related discipline and 1-2 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Prior experience as a research assistant or pursuing independent research is preferred. Computer-programming skills are necessary. Proven data analysis skills are required.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Wharton School

$44,500.00 - $62,000.00 Annual

Salary offers are based on qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they relate to the requirements of the position and market data for the job level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any protected class under applicable law.

Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer. The scope will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

• Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts: medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance with pre-tax spending options.
• Tuition: tuition assistance for you, your spouse, and dependent children; eligible for other institutions as well.
• Retirement: retirement plans with pre-tax or Roth options; investment choices through select providers.
• Time Away from Work: generous leave for personal and family needs.
• Long-Term Care…