Economist (Modeling) Consultant

About the role

The Economist (Modeling) Consultant will lead evidence‑based macro‑economic research to support CEPI Fellows, focusing on an updated gravity model for informal cross‑border trade between Cameroon and Nigeria. The role ensures model replicability and scientific rigor to inform policy decisions.

Key responsibilities

• Design and execute data‑driven economic models, econometric assessments, and policy analyses for trade facilitation.
• Gather, clean, and synthesize primary and secondary data from national statistical bodies, CEMAC institutions, BEAC, and other sources.
• Measure, verify, and reproduce economic models used in technical reports for government, civil society, and private‑sector stakeholders.
• Standardize metrics for economic impact of trade policies and organize policy roundtables, workshops, and public debates.
• Provide technical expertise to improve localized economic‑freedom data and mentor junior analysts (≈20 hours).

Required profile

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Economics, Applied Economics, Public Policy, Econometrics or a related quantitative field.
• 2–7 years of professional experience in economic research, policy analysis or strategic consulting with a record of published policy papers or peer‑reviewed research.
• Bilingual fluency in English and French, both written and spoken.
• Strong integrity and commitment to research independence.

Required skills

• Proficiency in statistical software such as Stata, R, Python or EViews for econometric modeling.
• Deep understanding of Central African macro‑economic frameworks, CEMAC regional integration, AfCFTA and informal trade dynamics.