Pre-Doctoral Researcher

The Research Department at INSEAD is currently seeking a Pre doctoral Researcher with a strong foundation in applied quantitative methods, real-time data analytics, and strategic decision-making. This unique role is ideal for professionals with prior experience in financial modeling, AI/ML applications, or behavioral strategy, looking to pivot toward academic research or doctoral study. The position is for one year based in Singapore, with the possibility of renewal at the end of the first year upon evaluation.

Position Overview:

This role is designed for exceptional final-year students or recent Master's graduates with an outstanding academic record and a genuine passion for research. Our ideal candidates are motivated individuals eager to enhance their research skills while working alongside renowned scholars, with the aim of pursuing a Ph.D. in the future. Previous Pre-Doctoral Researchers at INSEAD have successfully transitioned to Ph.D. programs at prestigious institutions such as INSEAD, Harvard, Stanford, Caltech, Columbia, Sciences Po, LSE, Stockholm School of Economics and others. They will support interdisciplinary research projects at the intersection of quantitative finance, organizational decision sciences, and technological innovation. Assignments may involve real-world datasets, algorithmic experimentation, and literature-grounded hypothesis testing in collaboration with INSEAD faculty. The role combines elements of research assistance, project ownership, and ideation which ideal for candidates with a unique blend of industry execution and academic curiosity.

Ideal Candidate:

Our ideal candidate is someone who:

. Is completing a Master's degree or has recently graduated from a top institution

. Comfort with both qualitative and quantitative analysis-including designing research protocols, conducting structured literature reviews, and statistical validation

. Is fluent in both written and spoken English

. Fundamental knowledge and expertise in the following languages: Hindi, Punjabi, Sanskrit

. 5 or more years of programming experience in C++, Python, VBA, Matlab, SQL, and R

. 5 or more years of programming experience in high volume analytics (e.g. trading data, real-time textual data, etc.) , including noise filtering, feature engineering, and model validation

. Mandatory Experience with major financial portals (i.e., Factset, IBES, Thompson Reuters, Bloomberg) and non-financial data social media and news portals across a wide spectrum of content types (i.e., X.com, Facebook, Youtube, etc.)

. Graduate of a top tier school in technology and computer science or equivalent

. Master in Finance or Masters in Business, from a top tier school

. Advanced coursework and application of artificial intelligence algorithm creation (supervised machine learning, supervised machine learning, reinforcement learning, including convex optimization) and neural networks.

. Deep proficiency in Python, including experience with packages like NumPy, pandas, scikit-learn, XGBoost, and integration with cloud or production environments

. Ability to operate autonomously, manage ambiguity, and translate open-ended questions into executable research tasks

Responsibilities:

As a Pre-Doctoral Researcher your responsibilities will include:

. Assisting with quantitative and/or qualitative research projects across academic areas

. Brainstorming potential research questions

. Conducting academic literature searches and reviews

. Managing and analyzing data using software packages like R, Python, Matlab, SAS, Stata, SPSS, etc.

. Performing statistical data analysis, interpreting findings, and contributing to write-ups

. Designing and conducting experiments

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, please submit the following documents to [Confidential Information]with the subject line including this job reference followed by your surname: RSHPP, Your Last Name

1. A cover letter (max. two pages) explaining your research experience/interest, competencies, and preferred academic areas (ranked if multiple)

2. A detailed CV with contact details of two potential references

3. A copy of your official academic transcripts and detailed marks

4. A writing sample or dofile showcasing one of your core competencies

Selection process:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged. We will acknowledge all applications submitted but due to the large volume of applications we receive, we will only contact shortlisted candidates. Please make sure that your application is complete and includes all the required documents mentioned above.

INSEAD is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. We consider applicants for employment without regard to factors such as gender, race, sexual orientation, disability, or nationality.

PROTECTION OF PERSONAL DATA

The personal data (CV, motivation letter, etc.) you communicate to INSEAD will be registered and stored in our database. They will be treated as confidential information and we will not communicate them to third parties under any condition. We will keep your personal data for a period of 1 year in order to be reviewed in case a new opportunity arises within INSEAD. Your data will be deleted after this period.