The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), UK’s leading progressive think tank, is seeking a Senior Economist to join our macroeconomics and AI team.

About the role

We are at a crucial moment for macroeconomic management in the UK. With high debt, elevated inflation and sluggish economic growth, policymakers face difficult trade-offs. At the same time, addressing urgent generational challenges - from poverty to climate change - demands increased investment. IPPR is seeking a senior research fellow to develop bold, innovative macroeconomic policies that reconcile fiscal sustainability with enhanced growth and improved living standards.
This influential and exciting role will shape IPPR’s macroeconomic agenda at a decisive time in British politics. You will co-lead our research and analysis on fiscal policy and economic growth, including responses to government fiscal policy and the Bank of England’s monetary stance. You will engage senior policymakers, civil society stakeholders, and media, advocating for thoughtful reforms to macroeconomic frameworks and investment strategies.

About you

We are looking for someone with intellectual curiosity, analytical rigour, and strong initiative. You will bring a solid background in economics or economic policymaking, including experience in data analysis and visualisation. You do not require direct experience of Westminster, but we are looking for someone with a good sense of political strategy and how research can drive policy impact.

The successful applicant will have strong project management skills and be able to communicate complex economic ideas clearly. A background in macroeconomic policy, such as fiscal or monetary policy, would be valuable but is not essential. Openness to learning new quantitative methods, such as economic modelling or the careful use of AI tools, would also be beneficial.

This post will be based in our London office, at the heart of Westminster, with staff expected to be in the office at least 40 per cent of their working hours. As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant to fill the post, including job-share or part-time working. All options can be discussed at interview stage.