Lead Researcher

aqa; Manchester; On-site; GBP 46,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

AQA is hiring a Lead Researcher in Manchester to shape research across assessment fields, including vocational reform and new assessment products. You will deliver research with impact, support decision-making, and collaborate across the Research and Evaluation team within Assessment Research and Innovation.

The role focuses on leading research, applying both qualitative and quantitative methods, and mentoring junior researchers, with hybrid working and a strong emphasis on inclusion and

Qualifications

• Experience as a senior researcher combining assessment expertise with project delivery.
• Master's degree in psychology, education, social sciences or related area; doctoral study beneficial.
• Strong knowledge of research methodologies; capable of designing/implementing qualitative and quantitative projects.
• Experience using R, Python or NVivo.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and evaluation projects in a matrix structure, balancing project leadership with technical input.
• Apply methodological expertise to design, deliver and interpret qualitative or quantitative research.
• Provide assessment expertise for vocational and new assessment product workstreams.
• Line manage and support junior researchers, including coaching.
• Build relationships with stakeholders across AQA, including product management and sales.
• Communicate research clearly through reports, presentations and outputs.
• Develop an expert voice in assessment and represent AQA where appropriate.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Research leadership

Qualitative methods

Quantitative methods

Communication

Education

Master's degree in psychology, education, social sciences or related area

Doctoral study or equivalent experience beneficial

Tools

R

Python

NVivo

Job description

At AQA, we're committed to advancing education and we're committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK , we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and it's our people who make this happen.

Lead Researcher

Permanent
Guildford: £47,500 - £54,300
Manchester: £45,600 - £52,100
Working Arrangements; Hybrid, two days a week in the office, including one anchor day and one flexible day

Shape research that influences the future of assessment and supports learners of all abilities.

AQA is looking for a Lead Researcher to develop and deliver research and evaluation projects across the assessment field, including vocational reform and the development of new assessment products. You'll bring assessment research expertise and turn evidence into insight that supports decisions across AQA and the wider sector.

This is a permanent, research-focused role with visible impact at a time of change in education and assessment. You'll join the Research and Evaluation team within Assessment Research and Innovation, supporting valid, inclusive and innovative assessments across paper-based and digital settings.

In this role, you'll be responsible for:

• Leading research and evaluation projects in a matrix structure, balancing project leadership with technical input.
• Applying methodological expertise to design, deliver and interpret qualitative or quantitative research.
• Providing assessment expertise for vocational and new assessment product workstreams.
• Line managing and supporting a small number of more junior researchers, including coaching and development support.
• Building relationships with stakeholders across AQA, including product management, vocational, sales, marketing, digital and edtech teams.
• Communicating research clearly through reports, presentations and other outputs for internal and external audiences.
• Developing an expert voice in assessment and representing AQA where appropriate.

You’ll thrive in this role if you have:

• You’ll suit this role if you're an experienced senior researcher who can combine assessment expertise, project delivery and clear stakeholder engagement.
• Demonstrable assessment research expertise and a sound understanding of the challenges and opportunities of the sector
• A master's degree in psychology, education, social sciences or a related area, with doctoral study or equivalent experience being beneficial.
• Secure knowledge of research methodologies and confidence designing and delivering qualitative and quantitative projects
• Strong stakeholder management skills
• Experience using tools such as R, Python or NVivo, depending on your research background.
• Experience managing research projects or people through line management, matrix management or project leadership.
• Experience presenting research findings to a wide range of audiences
• Wider education research experience may also be relevant where it links closely to assessment.

What's in it for you?

• The chance to make a meaningful impact on education while developing your profile as an expert voice in assessment research.
• A permanent, research-only with the opportunity to have real impact in the field
• Long-term impact across vocational and new assessment product workstreams expected to develop over the next three to five years.
• A 35-hour working week with flexible, hybrid working.
• 25 days' annual leave rising to 30, plus Christmas closure days.
• A benefits package including up to 11.5 percent pension contribution, BUPA healthcare support, wellbeing programmes and volunteering opportunities.
• Training, development and mentoring in a team with broad expertise across social and natural sciences.
• An inclusive, values-led culture with employee networks including LGBTQ+, neurodiversity, empowering women, wellbeing, ethnic diversity and Interfaith.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone - regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background - is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

What’s Next?

Applications are expected to close on Monday 31 August 2026.

Shortlisting and screening are expected during the week commencing Monday 7 September 2026.

The process will include an initial Teams conversation followed by a face‑to‑face interview

AQA may close the advert early if a high volume of suitable applications is received.

Successful candidates will be unable to maintain an Associate role with AQA or any other exam board.

Please note that an Enhanced DBS will be required for the successful candidate.