Are you passionate about tax policy, economic research, and making a global impact?

The International Tax Observatory (ITO), hosted at the Paris School of Economics, is seeking talented Research Assistants for the academic year 2026–2027.

With positions available in Paris, Norway, and West Africa, this opportunity is ideal for emerging economists eager to contribute to cutting-edge research on global taxation, corporate tax avoidance, and illicit financial flows.

About the International Tax Observatory

The International Tax Observatory is a leading institution in the study of taxation, focusing on corporate tax avoidance, tax evasion, and financial transparency. Directed by Professor Gabriel Zucman, ITO conducts innovative research to inform policymakers, civil society, and international organizations. It operates across six main research programs:

Multinational Enterprise (MNE) Taxation
Tax Evasion and Enforcement
Illicit Financial Flows and Real Estate
Wealth Taxation
Environmental Taxation
The Atlas of the Offshore World

Researchers at ITO engage with high-profile global partners, contribute to scientific publications, and participate in policy-relevant events. The Observatory has a strong international reputation, making this a unique opportunity to gain exposure to global taxation debates and contribute to impactful research.

Role and Responsibilities

Research Assistants will support ITO’s scientific activities across one or more of its six programs. Key responsibilities include:

Conducting taxation research, including data cleaning and analysis
Coding simulations and applying econometric models
Drafting scientific publications and reports
Assisting with events and outreach initiatives

Positions are flexible, allowing candidates to focus on areas of personal interest, while also gaining experience in cross-cutting research topics.

In addition to the Paris-based main track, ITO offers two specialized tracks:

Norway Track: Work on Illicit Financial Flows at Skatteforsk, the Norwegian Centre for Tax Research (Oslo area).
West Africa Track: Collaborate with tax authorities in Senegal and Benin, supporting tax administration projects (French fluency required).

Eligibility

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

Master’s degree in Economics (or a related field, completed by September 2026)
Strong command of English; French is required for the West Africa Track
Proficiency in data analysis, coding, and econometrics
Interest in taxation, financial transparency, or related economic fields

Prior experience in taxation or policy research is valued but not mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate adaptability, teamwork, and the ability to thrive in an international environment.

Benefits and Work Environment

Location flexibility: Paris, Norway, or West Africa
Salary: €2,500 gross per month for Paris-based positions; Norway and West Africa salaries discussed upon offer
Hands-on experience: Contribute to real-world policy research and publications
Professional growth: Collaborate with leading researchers, attend conferences, and gain international exposure

The Paris School of Economics fosters a vibrant research community, uniting 140 researchers and 200 doctoral students. ITO provides a platform for innovation, collaboration, and policy impact.

Application Process

Applications are due by April 3, 2026. To apply, submit:

CV
Cover Letter
Optional Letters of Recommendation

Candidates can indicate interest in specialized tracks while also being considered for the main Paris-based positions. Early submissions are encouraged, as positions are competitive.

Exclusive Insight: Why This Position is Career-Defining

This Research Assistant position is not just a job; it is a career-defining opportunity. Working at ITO places you at the forefront of international tax policy, providing the tools and mentorship to influence global debates. Previous assistants have gone on to hold influential positions in policy research institutes, international organizations, and government tax authorities, leveraging their experience to tackle complex financial systems.

You will gain hands-on experience in data-driven research, learn to apply cutting-edge econometric techniques, and collaborate with leading experts across continents. For those pursuing a career in global economics, public policy, or international finance, this position offers unparalleled exposure to policy-relevant projects, from corporate taxation analysis to studying illicit financial flows that affect economic development worldwide.

The combination of rigorous research training, international fieldwork opportunities, and direct engagement with policy discussions ensures that your work has a lasting impact on global taxation systems, making this more than an internship—it is a launchpad for meaningful change.

Application Deadline: April 3, 2026
Start Date: September 2026
Location: Paris, France; with tracks in Norway and West Africa
Salary: €2,500 gross/month (Paris-based)

Apply now and become part of a team tackling some of the most critical issues in global taxation today.

APPLY HERE

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this position. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.