Application Guide

How to Apply for Associate Fellow/Fellow: Macroeconomic Policy

at Centre for Social and Economic Progress

🏢 About Centre for Social and Economic Progress

The Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP) is a distinctive independent, non-partisan research organization focused exclusively on India's development challenges. Unlike academic institutions, CSEP emphasizes direct policy impact through evidence-based recommendations that influence national discourse. Working here offers the unique opportunity to shape India's macroeconomic policy landscape while maintaining intellectual independence.

About This Role

This Associate Fellow/Fellow role involves conducting original macroeconomic research that directly informs Indian economic policy debates. You'll be expected to produce regular publications using innovative methodologies to analyze topics like fiscal policy, monetary frameworks, and industry trends, with your work potentially influencing government decision-making at the highest levels.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day involves analyzing the latest Indian economic data releases, collaborating with team members on research design for ongoing projects, and drafting policy briefs that translate complex findings into actionable recommendations. You might spend mornings conducting statistical analysis on topics like inflation trends or fiscal multipliers, and afternoons preparing presentations for stakeholders or refining research methodologies for upcoming publications.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who Centre for Social and Economic Progress Is Looking For

  • Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in Economics with specialization in macroeconomics, public policy, or development economics
  • Demonstrated research portfolio with publications in reputable economic journals or policy briefs on Indian macroeconomic issues
  • Strong quantitative skills with expertise in statistical software (Stata/R/Python) and experience with Indian economic datasets (NSSO, RBI, MOSPI)
  • Ability to translate complex economic analysis into actionable policy recommendations for Indian stakeholders

📝 Tips for Applying to Centre for Social and Economic Progress

1

Highlight specific Indian macroeconomic topics you've researched (e.g., GST implementation, fiscal consolidation, monetary policy transmission)

2

Include links to 2-3 published papers or policy briefs that demonstrate your ability to influence policy discourse

3

Reference specific CSEP research projects or publications you admire and explain how your expertise aligns

4

Emphasize your experience with Indian economic data sources and institutional knowledge of India's policy landscape

5

Demonstrate understanding of CSEP's non-partisan approach by avoiding ideological language in your application

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific research experience with Indian macroeconomic issues and policy analysis', 'Examples of how your previous work has influenced or could influence policy decisions in India', 'Your methodological approach to economic research and ability to use statistical tools creatively', "Why CSEP's independent, evidence-based approach aligns with your research philosophy"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review CSEP's recent macroeconomic publications and identify gaps where you could contribute
  • → Study the backgrounds of current CSEP fellows to understand the organization's research culture
  • → Research CSEP's funding sources and governance structure to understand its independence model
  • → Examine how CSEP research has been cited in Indian policy documents or media discussions

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Your analysis of a current Indian macroeconomic challenge (e.g., fiscal deficit management, inflation targeting framework)
2 Methodological questions about how you would approach a specific research problem using Indian data
3 How you would design a research project to inform a specific Indian policy debate
4 Your experience collaborating on research teams and managing policy-oriented projects
5 Questions about your understanding of CSEP's research priorities and how you would contribute
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting generic research papers without clear relevance to Indian economic policy
  • Focusing only on theoretical economics without demonstrating policy application experience
  • Showing limited knowledge of India's specific economic institutions and data sources
  • Using overly academic language without ability to communicate for policy audiences

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

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Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Centre for Social and Economic Progress!

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