Research Manager Jobs in Economic Psychology

🎓 What is a Research Manager in Economic Psychology?

A Research Manager in Economic Psychology is a leadership role that combines strategic oversight of research initiatives with deep expertise in how human behavior shapes economic outcomes. This position, often found in universities, think tanks, or research institutes, involves directing teams to explore topics like consumer decision-making under uncertainty or the psychology of savings. Unlike general Research Manager roles, those in Economic Psychology emphasize interdisciplinary methods, drawing from experiments, surveys, and econometric models to uncover insights into financial behaviors.

The field has roots in the 1970s, with pioneers like George Katona at the University of Michigan pioneering surveys on consumer confidence. Today, Research Managers lead projects funded by bodies like the European Research Council, producing studies that inform policies on everything from retirement planning to market regulations.

📊 Defining Economic Psychology

Economic Psychology, meaning the scientific study of psychological processes underlying economic phenomena, examines why people deviate from rational economic models. For instance, it investigates phenomena like loss aversion—where losses feel twice as painful as equivalent gains—or herd behavior in stock markets. A Research Manager here designs studies to test these concepts empirically, often using lab experiments or field data from sources like household panels.

This specialty thrives in countries like the Netherlands, home to the International Association for Research in Economic Psychology (IAREP), and the US, with centers at Stanford and Chicago. Managers ensure research aligns with ethical standards, such as those from the American Psychological Association.

🔍 Roles and Responsibilities

Research Managers in this field orchestrate complex projects, from hypothesis formulation to publication. Daily tasks include:

• Supervising junior researchers and PhD students on data collection and analysis.
• Securing grants, with success rates around 20% for competitive schemes like NSF in the US.
• Collaborating with economists and policymakers to translate findings into actionable advice.
• Managing budgets, often $500,000+ per project, while meeting milestones.

For example, a manager might lead a study on nudge interventions for green energy adoption, publishing in journals like Journal of Economic Psychology.

📚 Required Qualifications and Expertise

To excel, candidates need specific academic and professional credentials.

Required Academic Qualifications: A PhD in Economic Psychology, behavioral economics, or a related field like social psychology with economic focus. Master's holders may enter with extensive experience.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed: Proven track record in behavioral experiments, survey design, or neuroeconomic methods. Familiarity with topics like prospect theory or time inconsistency.

Preferred Experience: 5-10 years in research, including 10+ peer-reviewed publications, successful grant awards (e.g., $1M+ total), and team leadership.

Skills and Competencies:

• Advanced statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Python).
• Project management tools like Asana.
• Strong communication for stakeholder reports.
• Ethical oversight and diversity in team building.

Aim to build these through roles like postdoctoral research.

💼 Advancing Your Career

Transitioning to a Research Manager involves gaining visibility via conferences like IAREP annual meetings. Tailor your CV to highlight impact metrics, such as citations over 500. Networking on platforms like research jobs boards opens doors globally.

In summary, Research Manager jobs in Economic Psychology offer rewarding paths to influence policy and academia. Explore opportunities at higher ed jobs, career tips via higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post your opening on recruitment services.