Research Assistant

Applied Economics Clinic Job Announcement: Research Assistant

Seeking Applicants For: Fall 2025

The Applied Economics Clinic (AEC, www.aeclinic.org) is currently hiring part-time Research Assistants for our internship program. We are currently seeking applicants for our Fall 2025 term, with a planned appointment contract of September 15th – December 19th, 2025.

We seek PhD candidates or advanced Master’s students who are currently enrolled in an advanced degree program in a related field (e.g., economics, engineering, public policy, science). AEC offers a collaborative, fully remote work environment dedicated to training the next generation of technical expert witnesses and analysts. Our mission also emphasizes providing accessible, low-cost services to clients and promoting diversity in our field. Applicants are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet all preferred and desired qualifications. The ideal candidate is an active student who is enthusiastic about AEC’s work and mission, values a healthy work-life balance, and is passionate about serving public interest clients.

This is a part-time position with an expected commitment of 16-24 hours per week for the Fall term. Compensation for Master’s-level Research Assistants starts at $28 per hour, and for PhD-level Research Assistants, it starts at $33 per hour, with potential for higher wages depending on experience.

Research Assistant Job Description

AEC is a mission-driven, non-profit consulting group providing services (e.g., analysis, modeling, testimony, public reports, etc.) in energy, climate, environment, and social equity. We also offer pro bono services to environmental justice-focused community-based organizations. Our clients include public interest groups—non-profits, government agencies, and green business associations. As a part-time Research Assistant at AEC, you will support project managers in conducting research and analysis for our clients. This position offers a valuable opportunity to develop quantitative and qualitative analysis skills and gain experience working with public interest organizations.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Research and summarize information on energy, environment, and equity topics as directed by project managers.
• Collect, organize, and analyze data using Excel.
• Assist with written materials, including draft reports, project proposals, and AEC blog posts.
• Attend training sessions to advance skills and knowledge.

Qualifications

• Preferably an active student currently enrolled in an advanced degree program in a related field (e.g., economics, engineering, public policy, science).
• Strong technical and general audience writing skills.
• Quantitative and qualitative analysis skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel (including advanced formulas).
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and manage time effectively.
• Collaborative and willing to learn and incorporate feedback.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States for the duration of the appointment. AEC cannot provide employment sponsorship, but applicants with valid U.S. work authorization (such as through a student visa) are welcome to apply.
• Ability to maintain a consistent part-time schedule during standard U.S. East Coast business hours (in the 9:00-5:00 EST window) to ensure regular collaboration with AEC team members in a remote work environment.
• Must have access to reliable internet, a Windows-based PC, and a quiet work environment suitable for remote work. AEC can provide necessary technological accessories (e.g., keyboard, mouse, headset) but not computing devices.

Desired (but not required) Qualifications

• Knowledge of environmental issues and basic economic concepts.
• Familiarity with additional quantitative modeling programs.
• Understanding of environmental justice and equity issues.
• Experience working with government and nonprofit organizations.
• Publication experience related to environmental and equity issues.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials to jobs@aeclinic.org:

• A cover letter indicating where you saw this job ad and explaining why you want to work at AEC.
• CV or resume.
• A writing sample that demonstrates your ability to translate technical material for a general audience.
• An Excel spreadsheet sample that showcases your data organization skills, including formulas and data visualizations (no pivot tables).
• Three references (with names, contact information, and relationship to you) who can speak to your qualifications.

For Massachusetts-based Applicants

With the exception of PhD students, eligible MA residents and/or MA-based students must be registered on Massachusetts Clean Energy Center's website for the Massachusetts Clean Energy Internship Program. Visit MassCEC.com/clean-energy-internships-students for more information. PhD candidates are ineligible for the MA Clean Energy Internship Program but are still invited to apply for the Research Assistant position.

About the Applied Economics Clinic

Based in Arlington, Massachusetts, AEC is a mission-based nonprofit consulting group offering expert services in energy, environment, consumer protection, and equity. Founded in 2017 by Executive Director Dr. Elizabeth A. Stanton, AEC provides lower-cost consulting services and, with foundation support, offers pro bono services. AEC’s clients include public interest groups, non?profits, government agencies, and green business associations. Our staff has expertise in electric and economic systems modeling, climate and emissions analysis, green technologies, and translating technical information for general audiences.

AEC Mission

1. Provide low-cost (and when funded, pro bono) expert services to public interest groups in energy, environment, consumer protection, and equity.
2. Train the next generation of expert technical witnesses and analysts by providing hands-on learning experiences to graduate students.
3. Support and promote diversity in the fields of economics, engineering, math, and science.