Economic Research

As part of the nation’s central bank, the Boston Fed shares responsibility for carrying out the Federal Reserve’s dual mandate—to promote price stability and maximize employment. The Research Department plays a key role in carrying out this mission by conducting original, empirical research, briefing the Bank President on our findings in preparation for his participation in FOMC deliberations and other monetary and economic policy discussions, providing analysis to our Board of Directors in support of their primary credit rate recommendations to the Board of Governors, and conducting periodic interviews with regional businesses to collect anecdotal information for the Beige Book.

We also aim to influence public policy decisions by participating in academic debates at conferences and through other scholarly outlets such as peer-reviewed journals. Our staff of economists, policy and data analysts, research assistants, computing technicians, editors, librarians and administrative specialists work together to achieve these goals.

Current Opportunities

Now Hiring Research Assistants

The Research Assistant (RA) program at the Boston Fed is a two-year program designed for recent college graduates with a background in economics, math, statistics, or related fields. RAs work with economists on a variety of research projects and provide support for ongoing analysis of the New England, U.S., and global economies and monetary policy, as well as bank regulation, the payments system, and financial markets.

The Boston Fed is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to supporting and fostering diversity within the broader economics research community. If you are interested in gaining meaningful work experience, expanding your career options, and serving the public, we encourage you to apply for our Research Assistant Program. Working as a research assistant for the Boston Fed can be an excellent step along your career path.

To apply for immediate openings, please click here.

To apply for positions that start in June 2024, please click here.

The Federal Reserve System is expecting to hire dozens of research assistants over the coming months. Internship opportunities will be available as well. To learn more about the RA programs and job opportunities at our 13 locations, please visit fedeconjobs.org.

"As an economist in the Boston Fed’s Research department, I have the benefit of working in a collaborative, supportive, and non-vertical unit, that enables me to do research that contributes to economic and financial stabilization policies. I take pride in knowing that our research can make a positive change for people. The Bank leadership promotes a strong sense of community, organizes seminars and trainings for professional growth, and shows great consideration for the welfare of a diverse workforce."

Vaishali Garga, Research

Dissertation Fellowship Opportunities

The Federal Reserve Bank of Boston offers paid in-residence fellowships for graduate students in economics to conduct research at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.

Learn more.