Opportunities for PhD Students: Research Assistantships in Finance and Accounting

Absolutely! There are several avenues to explore for internship positions as a research assistant or associate for aspiring PhD students in finance and accounting. Here are some tips to help you find these valuable opportunities:

University Departments

Many universities with PhD programs in finance and accounting offer research assistantships to their own students. These positions often involve working directly with professors on their research projects. Checking with your department's program advisor or faculty members is a great start to see if there are any current openings. Universities can provide a wide range of research projects and opportunities to collaborate with experienced professionals.

Research Institutions

Independent research institutions that focus on finance and accounting often hire research assistants and associates to help with their projects. Some notable examples include:

National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) Brookings Institution Center for Financial Studies

These institutions not only offer valuable experience but also provide connections to other professionals in the field and opportunities for publication and collaboration.

Government Agencies

Government agencies like the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Federal Reserve, and the Department of the Treasury sometimes have internship opportunities for finance and accounting students. These positions can provide a unique perspective on the regulatory environment and policy making in the financial sector.

Private Companies

Some financial services firms and accounting firms offer internship programs for research assistants. These internships can be an excellent way to gain experience in the private sector and learn about the latest industry trends. Companies such as consulting firms, investment banks, and major accounting firms often have dedicated research teams that can provide valuable insights and experiences.

Professional Associations

Professional associations such as the American Finance Association (AFA) and the American Accounting Association (AAA) sometimes offer internship programs or job boards that list research opportunities. These associations can help connect students with specific research opportunities and industry professionals.

Additional Tips for Finding Internship Positions

Leverage Your Network

Talk to your professors, advisors, and current PhD students in your program about potential research opportunities. They may have connections to faculty members or institutions that are looking for research assistants. Networking within your academic community can lead to valuable insider information and access to internal opportunities.

Search Online Job Boards

Utilize online job boards to find internship positions. General job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn are great resources, while job boards specific to finance and accounting, such as Vault, can provide more targeted listings. These platforms often have comprehensive databases of opportunities tailored to your field.

Attend Career Fairs

Many universities host career fairs specifically for PhD students. These career fairs can be a great way to meet with representatives from research institutions, government agencies, and private companies that offer research internship opportunities. Attending these events can provide direct access to job seekers and a platform for discussing potential collaborations.

Remember, the key to finding a research assistantship is to be proactive and start your search early. Don't hesitate to reach out to professors, advisors, and other professionals in your field to inquire about potential opportunities. By leveraging these tips and resources, you can significantly increase your chances of securing a valuable and fulfilling research assistantship in finance and accounting.