Jumping from macro research in public/NGO sector to GS GIR

Dear all,

Since graduation (undergrad + masters, both in econ/finance and both at HYPSM) I've spent 6 years in various economic policy roles in a public/NGO entity, which didn't really involve hardcore quant work. Just a year ago I switched over to a full macro economic research role in the same entity. Recently I found a job posting for macroeconomic coverage in Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research, that has the same macro coverage as my current role.

1. Would it be premature to apply to GS, with only a year of actual economist experience under my belt? There will certainly be applicants with a longer economist experience than me at the same age. But am hoping that my undergrad name could still get me through the door

2. Are there downsides to going for a GS (or any bank) interview before you're ready? My worry is that if I make a bad impression at a GS interview this year, it could affect my chances if I re-apply for the same position with the same team a few years later.

3. Would GS contact my current employer for any reason, as part of the application process? I am worried that my current employer would hear that I am looking for other opportunities - this could negatively affect me during performance ranking this year. My friends tell me that major banks would only contact the specific referees that I provide, and even so only after I pass the interview and am close to being hired.

Thanks for your advice people!