How Do Banks Slot PhDs into IBD Recruiting?

A friend just started a non-STEM, non-finance PhD at a super target, with zero prior work experience.

Curious how BB/EB banks would view them for IBD recruiting, assuming they network hard and get interviews:

  • Would they be considered for analyst roles, even if “overqualified”?
  • Could they land associate roles without an MBA or prior experience?
  • Or do they fall into some weird third bucket?

Trying to understand how banks typically slot PhD candidates into the process. Appreciate any insight.

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