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Center for Economic Research in Pakistan: Career Opportunities for 2026

The Center for Economic Research in Pakistan (CERP) stands as a premier, independent institution dedicated to generating high-quality, evidence-based research that directly informs public policy and private sector strategy. Operating from its headquarters in Lahore, with a significant presence in Islamabad, CERP bridges the gap between academic rigor and practical application. Our work, spanning fiscal policy, education, healthcare, governance, and private sector development, relies on a unique model that combines field experiments, data analytics, and deep engagement with stakeholders. As we look toward 2026, our strategic expansion into new thematic areas, including climate economics and digital financial inclusion, is driving a significant phase of hiring. We are actively seeking passionate professionals to join our mission of using data and research to tackle Pakistan's most pressing economic challenges.

Our 2026 recruitment drive is focused on building capacity across all levels of the organization. We anticipate creating numerous new positions for Research Associates, Senior Economists, Field Operations Managers, and Data Scientists. These roles are central to our upcoming large-scale projects evaluating social protection programs and SME competitiveness. Careers at CERP are not just jobs; they are immersive opportunities for professional growth within a collaborative, intellectually stimulating environment. We provide unparalleled access to cutting-edge research methodologies, mentorship from globally recognized experts, and the tangible satisfaction of seeing your work influence national discourse and policy formulation.

Available Positions and Application Process

Current vacancies at the Center for Economic Research in Pakistan are typically advertised on our official careers portal and through professional networks like LinkedIn. For the 2025-2026 cycle, we are prioritizing candidates for roles in our Policy Analysis and Survey & Data units. A frequent opening is for a Research Associate, a position requiring a Master’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, or a related field, with demonstrated skills in Stata, R, or Python. Successful candidates often have prior experience in managing field surveys or conducting econometric analysis for impact evaluations. Another critical vacancy we seek to fill is for a Field Operations Lead, responsible for overseeing data collection teams across Punjab and Sindh, ensuring the integrity and timeliness of our primary data—the backbone of our research credibility.

The application process for these employment opportunities is designed to be thorough and merit-based. Interested candidates must submit a detailed CV, a cover letter specifically addressing their interest in CERP’s thematic work, and a relevant writing sample or code portfolio via our online application system. Shortlisted applicants undergo a multi-stage assessment, which may include a written technical test, a practical data analysis exercise, and several rounds of interviews with senior research staff and HR. We value clarity of thought, methodological rigor, and a deep commitment to evidence-based problem-solving. The typical timeline from application closure to job offer is four to six weeks, and we strive to provide feedback to all candidates who reach the interview stage.

Why Build Your Career at CERP?

Choosing a career at the Center for Economic Research in Pakistan means embedding yourself in an ecosystem that values intellectual curiosity and real-world impact. Our staff work on projects funded by international development partners and in direct collaboration with Pakistani government ministries, offering a unique dual perspective. For instance, a junior researcher might find themselves designing a randomized controlled trial to test the efficacy of a new agricultural subsidy program, presenting findings to provincial secretaries, and co-authoring a paper for an international journal—all within their first two years. This hands-on, end-to-end involvement accelerates professional development in a way few other institutions in the region can match.

Beyond the research itself, we invest heavily in our team's growth. Employment at CERP includes a comprehensive benefits package, competitive local salaries, and dedicated funding for continuous learning, including advanced courses and international conference attendance. Our office culture is built on collaboration and open dialogue; weekly seminars and brown-bag sessions foster a vibrant exchange of ideas. We are particularly proud of our alumni network, where former staff have progressed to leading PhD programs, taken up influential roles in global policy institutes, or assumed senior advisory positions within the public sector.