Part-Time Research Assistant

Reference #: REQ0000062748

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Professors Steiner, Ambrose and Gustafson are looking to hire a part-time research assistant to support a joint research project. The project is about the effects of environmentalpolicy uncertainty on households' investments in sustainable home upgrades. The research assistant would be expected to work on average 5 hours per week.Duties will include, but are not limited to:

Data collection

Data analysisA key part of the project is constructing an index of environmental policy uncertainty. This index will follow the methodology outlined here: http://www.policyuncertainty.com.However, in contrast to the economic policy uncertainty index described on the website, our index will focus on environmental policy, and it should be on the state-level or ideally MSA-level rather than nationwide.We are looking for a research assistant to take the methodology behind the economic policy uncertainty index and adapt it (under our guidance) to construct state- and local-level environmental policy uncertainty indices.The work needs to be completed by the end of the spring semester 2025. Once the indices have been constructed, we hope to build a website for them and turn them into a regular research product like my co-author's alternative inflation index here: https://sites.psu.edu/inflation/ We are also thinking about building an application for interested researchers to access and use the indices based on our data, etc.Requirements and Qualifications

Background in computer science and/or data analytics

Background in economics, finance, and/or real estate

Python proficiencyThe Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, fostera culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strengthand an essential element of our public service mission.CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.EEO IS THE LAWFederal Contractors Labor Law Poster

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