About the Institute
Khazanah Research Institute (KRI) carries out research on the pressing issues of the nation. We then recommend policies to improve the well-being of Malaysians based on that research.
We do all this through:
- rigorous impartial analysis founded on data;
- convening discussions, amongst those who are relevant, to illuminate understanding of the issues;
- being advocates of the knowledge we acquire.
We are a not-for-profit organisation funded by Yayasan Hasanah and Khazanah Nasional Berhad. To learn more about us, visit KRInstitute.org and our socials, @krinstitute on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok.
About the Role
KRI is seeking quantitatively trained public policy researchers to join our growing, impact-driven team. We are looking for individuals with qualifications in statistics, econometrics, economics, data science, or computer science, with a passion for applying data-driven research to address Malaysia's most pressing policy challenges.
We welcome applications from mid-career to senior-level researchers, with the level of appointment depending on experience and demonstrated past work.
What You'll Do
- Design and conduct high-impact policy research
- Analyse complex datasets using appropriate tools and methods
- Produce research papers, policy briefs, and short articles to raise public awareness
- Engage with policymakers, regulators, civil society, academia and other stakeholders through syndication, advocacy, public speaking engagements, and media platforms
- Collaborate internally and externally, while building your research credibility and professional network in your area of specialisation under the KRI platform
- Lead or contribute to research projects aligned with national priorities
- Support/conduct other relevant assignments as needed
Research Areas
Your research may fall under one or more of our pillars, or explore cross-cutting issues such as climate, digital transformation, or artificial intelligence (AI):
- The State of Households: This programme focuses on Malaysian households, examining factors such as inequality, social mobility, and women's workforce challenges, informed by data such as the Department of Statistics Malaysia's (DOSM) Household Income & Expenditure Survey. This track aims to improve household well-being and economic status, emphasising gender-specific issues, such as inequality, social mobility, gender, affordable housing, and household economic resilience.
- Human Capital, Productivity & Income: This programme examines the interplay between labour income, productivity, and the quality of education and training. It seeks to understand the impact of labour laws and market conditions on wages and productivity. It also aims to align education and training with labour market needs, enhancing human capital development. For example, labour market structures, education/training alignment, and wage-productivity dynamics are examined.
- Local Firms & Regional Economy: This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of local firms, particularly SMEs, leveraging regional markets. It involves developing SME competitiveness, addressing domestic market reliance, and focusing on sectors like food and commodities. Additionally, this track emphasises strengthening bilateral and multilateral economic ties to foster broader economic integration. E.g., SME development, sectoral strategies, and regional economic integration.
- Fiscal Studies: This is a study of public finance, focusing on expenditure (subsidies, safety nets), revenue (tax and non-tax sources) and debt (both direct and contingent liabilities). It delves into capital market dynamics, such as sovereigns, government guarantees, and market liquidity and assesses the effectiveness and efficiency of government allocation. E.g., public expenditure, taxation, debt, and capital market dynamics.
What We Offer
- Institutionally funded research: Focus on research without the burden of grant applications
- Autonomy and impact: Pursue research aligned with your interest or specialisation and shape policy discourse
- Collaborative, flat structure: Mentorship over hierarchy, idea-driven teamwork
- Professional growth: Training, conferences, and opportunities to publish and present your work
- Cross-sector exposure: Direct engagement with government, academia, civil society, and international research institutes/think tanks
- Flexible hybrid work environment: Supportive, mission-driven culture with a focus on evidence and public good
Who We're Looking For
- Minimum 3 4 years of relevant experience
- Master's degree in a relevant field (statistics, econometrics, data/computer science, economics, etc.). A PhD is an advantage.
- Track record of publication or applied research output
- Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills
- Familiarity with Malaysia's socio-economic context is an advantage
To Apply
Send your CV, cover letter, academic transcripts and at least 2 samples of your written work (e.g. research paper or technical report) to [Confidential Information] with the subject line: Application for Public Policy Researcher: [Your Name]
Please note that due to the number of applications we receive, only shortlisted candidates will receive responses. We appreciate your kind understanding.
