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Affiliate Researcher - Data Science

CFA Institute
Full-time
On-site
London, United Kingdom
Technology

Are you passionate about groundbreaking research in investment management? Are you eager to influence industry best practices, market integrity, and talent development?

CFA Institute is inviting talented and driven Researchers to join us as an Affiliate until October 2026 to conduct impactful research aligned with our forward-thinking thematic research agenda.

This position is based in London and the successful candidate will be required to be based in the London at least two days per week . This role will be supported by the Senior Head – Research Center.

Examples of previous research by the CFA Institute Research and Policy Center is available at  https://rpc.cfainstitute.org/en/.


 

What You’ll Do

As a Research Affiliate, you’ll be at the forefront of developing research that:

  • Advances understanding and knowledge among investment practitioners, institutions, and policymakers.

  • Drives innovation in industry best practices, regulation, and market integrity.

  • Contributes to talent development across the investment management ecosystem.

You’ll collaborate closely with our Senior Head of Research and receive mentorship from experts in our Research, Advocacy, and Standards group. Your work will be published by the CFA Institute Research & Policy Center and may even evolve into academic journal articles.

Your Key Responsibilities

  • Lead research projects and draft compelling papers and articles on cutting-edge capital market issues.

  • Originate innovative ideas on investment industry topics and translate them into actionable recommendations and policy positions.

  • For Affiliates with advanced research experience, you’ll provide guidance on broader initiatives and mentor junior affiliates.

Your Research Interests

We’re particularly interested in candidates with an interest in the following:

  • Machine Learning

  • Natural Language Processing

  • Large Language Models

  • Big Data

  • Alternative Data

What We’re Looking For

  • A completed Master’s or Doctorate degree in Finance, Economics, Law, or a related field.

  • A CFA charter holder or candidate (preferred but not required).

  • Exceptional writing and analytical skills with a talent for simplifying complex concepts.

  • Fluency in English (additional languages are a plus).

  • A self-starter who thrives in a dynamic, results-driven environment.

  • Ability to generate and articulate ideas clearly.

  • Experience in trading, research, publications, or writing articles/reports is beneficial.


About CFA Institute

CFA Institute are the global leader in investment excellence and ethics. With nearly 200,000 charterholders across 160 markets, we drive professional growth, ethical behavior, and better markets. We care about our employees’ well-being, offering industry-leading benefits like:

  • Comprehensive health coverage for you and your family

  • Generous leave and time off

  • Competitive retirement plans

  • Flexible work options

  • Wellness, education, and support programs

If you feel this opportunity could be the next step in your career, we encourage you to click “Apply” and complete our three-minute application.

Be part of a team committed to putting investors first and growing economies. Follow us @CFAInstitute on LinkedIn and X.


We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. CFA Institute prohibits both discrimination and harassment with regard to all identifying characteristics: any individual employee, group of employees, or prospective employee on the basis of race, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, religion, creed or belief, age, marital or partnership status, marital or family status, care giver status, pregnancy and maternity, sexual and other reproductive health decisions, physical abilities/qualities, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, predisposing genetic characteristic, military or veteran status, status as a victim or witness of domestic violence or sex offense or stalking, unemployment status, infectious disease carrier status, migrant worker status, educational background, socio-economic status, geographic location and culture or any other basis protected by applicable law. This policy impacts all aspects of employment, including but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, development, promotion, demotion, layoff, recall, furlough, transfer, leave of absence, and dismissal. This is a global policy that applies to all CFA Institute employees, regardless of location.

If, due to a disability or current medical condition, you need an accommodation or assistance to complete a job application, you can request one at any stage of the recruitment process. Please send an email to humanresources@cfainstitute.org noting the accommodations or assistance you are requesting. Please do not include any medical or health information in this email. We will review your request and contact you to discuss the possible options and arrangements. We will try our best to provide you with an accommodation or assistance that meets your needs and respects your preferences.

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