Join a Prestigious Global Institution to Make a Meaningful Impact on Commodity Markets and Climate Change
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is renowned worldwide for its critical role in fostering global monetary cooperation, securing financial stability, facilitating international trade, promoting high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reducing poverty around the world. As part of its ongoing efforts to deepen understanding of commodity markets and their influence on the global economy, the IMF’s Research Department is seeking highly motivated and skilled professionals to fill the position of Research Officer or Senior Research Officer (Contractual) within the Commodities Unit.
This is a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about economic research, data analysis, and policy development to contribute directly to the IMF’s mission of economic stability and sustainable development.
Position Overview: Research Officer / Senior Research Officer (Contractual)
Location: Washington DC, USA
Type: Full-Time Contract (with potential renewal based on performance and organizational needs)
Application Deadline: May 15, 2025 (Limited time remaining)
Requisition ID: 25-R8026
Work for the IMF. Work for the World.
Reporting Line and Work Environment
The successful candidate will typically report to the Unit Chief or Economist of the Commodities Unit within the Research Department. The position offers a stimulating environment where analytical rigor meets policy relevance, and where your work will directly support the IMF’s assessments and recommendations on energy, metals, agriculture, and climate change-related issues affecting global commodity markets.
Job Summary: What You Will Do
The Commodities Unit specializes in providing timely, insightful assessments of developments in energy and commodity markets worldwide. Its research aims to deepen the understanding of market dynamics, macro-critical issues related to energy transitions, and climate change impacts. As a Research Officer or Senior Research Officer, you will play a pivotal role in supporting these objectives through rigorous data analysis, research, and market surveillance.
Key responsibilities include:
- Data Collection & Management: Research, compile, and maintain comprehensive databases on commodity markets, including energy, metals, and agricultural products. This involves retrieving and updating data from major financial platforms such as Bloomberg, HAVER, and DataStream.
- Data Processing & Analysis: Transform raw data into meaningful insights using advanced statistical and econometric techniques. Prepare detailed charts, tables, and reports that clearly communicate market trends and economic implications.
- Support Econometric Analysis: Assist economists and policy advisors in conducting quantitative analyses, applying econometric models, and interpreting results that inform IMF reports and policy recommendations.
- Market Surveillance: Monitor developments in commodity markets, identify emerging trends, and report significant changes or risks to senior staff.
- Documentation & Reporting: Contribute to research publications, policy briefs, and presentations by preparing high-quality visualizations and summaries.
- Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with economists, policy analysts, and other research staff to ensure comprehensive understanding and accurate interpretation of data.
Qualifications & Skills: What We Are Looking For
The ideal candidate will bring a blend of academic excellence, technical expertise, and practical experience:
Educational & Professional Background:
- An advanced university degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in economics, finance, statistics, computer science, or related fields; or
- A university degree with at least six (6) years of relevant professional experience, or
- A minimum of two (2) years of experience at a comparable level (Grade A08 or equivalent).
Technical Skills:
- Proven proficiency in data management, statistical analysis, and macroeconomic modeling.
- Strong knowledge of statistics, econometrics, and macroeconomic concepts.
- Expertise in data retrieval and analysis using platforms like Bloomberg, DataStream, HAVER, etc.
- Advanced skills in Excel, PowerPoint, and data visualization tools.
- Working knowledge of econometric software such as STATA is essential; familiarity with Eviews, MATLAB, R, Python, or SAS is highly desirable.
- Ability to process large datasets, perform complex transformations, and generate insightful visualizations.
Additional Assets:
- Experience or research background in commodity markets, energy, metals, or agricultural sectors is advantageous but not mandatory.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, ensuring high accuracy and attention to detail.
Contract Details & Benefits
This position is initially offered as a one-year contractual appointment, with the possibility of renewal for up to four years based on performance, budget availability, and organizational needs. The IMF is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace free from discrimination and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.
The contract offers competitive remuneration, professional development opportunities, and the chance to contribute to impactful research that influences global economic policies.
How to Apply
Candidates interested in this exciting opportunity should visit the IMF Careers portal to submit their applications. The application process involves:
- Reviewing the detailed job description and requirements.
- Preparing a comprehensive resume highlighting relevant experience and skills.
- Writing a tailored cover letter explaining your motivation and suitability for the role.
- Uploading all documents through the online application system before the deadline.
The IMF values diversity and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of nationality, gender, or disability. If special accommodations are needed during the application process, information will be provided on request.
Why Join the IMF?
Working at the IMF offers a unique platform to influence international economic policy, collaborate with leading experts, and gain invaluable experience in global finance and development. Your contributions will help shape policies that promote stability, growth, and sustainability worldwide.
If you are passionate about economics, possess strong analytical skills, and want to be part of a prestigious organization dedicated to global betterment, don’t miss this chance. Apply now to become an integral part of the IMF’s research team and help address some of the most pressing challenges facing the world today.
Embark on a rewarding career path—your expertise can make a difference. Visit the IMF Careers page today and submit your application before the deadline. Together, we can work towards a more resilient and sustainable global economy.
IMF Careers Page
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