One group that's spending some attention to this is 80,000 Hours, a group that Peter Singer recommended. They are researching and advising people on how to do as much good as possible through their careers.
There are quite a few people doing "Earning to Give", or earning as much money as possible and giving away 10-60% of it to the most efficient known causes. One can do quite a bit of good this way, it's actually quite difficult compete in the direct work you do.
Disclaimer: I'm currently doing an internship here. Think their take is quite unique in this way though.
http://80000hours.org/blog
There are quite a few people doing "Earning to Give", or earning as much money as possible and giving away 10-60% of it to the most efficient known causes. One can do quite a bit of good this way, it's actually quite difficult compete in the direct work you do.
Disclaimer: I'm currently doing an internship here. Think their take is quite unique in this way though. http://80000hours.org/blog