Research Assistant

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Cambridge is inviting applications for a Research Associate/Assistant position focused on public policy. This role seeks a candidate with a strong background in relevant disciplines such as economics or history, with a keen interest in industrial and regional policy. The position involves researching the Cambridge Phenomenon and engaging with policy-makers, making it ideal for candidates interested in contributing to significant policy discussions and developments in the UK. The application process requires a CV, a covering letter, and a writing sample.

Qualifications

• Background in economics, history, or public policy is ideal.
• Experience engaging with external audiences, including policy-makers.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the Cambridge Phenomenon.
• Examine national government's role in regional development.
• Engage with stakeholders to disseminate findings.

Skills

Research methods

Policy analysis

Engagement with policy-makers

Education

PhD in relevant field (completed or nearly submitted)

Job description

Overview

The project is funded by The Productivity Institute. Fixed term funding is available until 31st March 2027. Applications are invited for a Research Associate / Assistant at the new Bennett School of Public Policy (BSPP) in the Faculty of Human, Social and Political Science. The start date for this role will be April 2026.

About BSPP

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Bennett School of Public Policy (BSPP) at its inception. The BSPP, part of the Faculty of Human, Social and Political Science, has an ambitious growth plan including launching a new M.Phil in Digital Policy alongside an expanded M.Phil in Public Policy, and the development of a new PhD programme. It is led by its inaugural Director Professor Michael Kenny and Professor Diane Coyle, the Bennett Professor of Public Policy. The Bennett School of Public Policy is seeking a Research Associate / Assistant to deliver a 12-month project examining the relationship between the "Cambridge Phenomenon" and the changing landscape of government policy. The so-called 'Cambridge phenomenon' is often seen as a product of the local environment and the drive of key individuals at a particular point in time. At a time of renewed national interest in the city, this research project will consider the role of national government in the last 70 years in helping or hindering the growth of the phenomenon. Focusing on both ongoing national policy questions, such as the role of research and R&D, as well as changing approaches to industrial strategy and regional policy, the research will draw out lessons for the next phase of Cambridge's development as well as broader lessons in relation to industrial policy and the creation of place-based knowledge-intensive clusters.

Role

This position offers an excellent opportunity for a researcher with a background in relevant disciplines, such as economics or history, and a keen interest in industrial and/or regional policy in the United Kingdom. Applications from candidates with backgrounds in public policy and any associated disciplines, and with experience of engaging with external audiences, including policy-makers, are particularly welcome.

Qualifications

• Candidates for the post of Research Associate / Assistant should normally have a PhD (submitted or nearly submitted at the time of application) in a relevant field, or, for candidates without a PhD, substantial and demonstrable research skills (academic or professional) that reflect equivalent research capability.
• All candidates should be able to demonstrate some experience of relevant research methods and be able to provide evidence of potential for research and publication at the highest level, and a good understanding of the policy process.

Salary

Salary Ranges: Research Associate (Grade 7): 37,694 - 46,049. Those on an academic pathway who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5): 34,610 - 35,608 moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.

Application requirements

• A covering letter (2 pages max), explaining the reasons for your application and how your knowledge, skills and experience match the requirements of the role you are applying for
• A Curriculum Vitae (CV), to include full details of educational qualifications and academic experience, and a list of publications
• A recent writing sample (maximum 10,000 words)
• The contact details of two referees

How to apply

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Closing date

The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on 10th February 2026 and interviews are expected to take place shortly after.

Further information

Further information about the BSPP can be found at: https://www.bennettschool.cam.ac.uk/

Application details

• Applications should be made online. Applicants must provide the names and contact details of two referees who are familiar with their work.
• Applications should be made online. Applicants must provide the names and contact details of three referees who are familiar with their work.

Reference

Please quote reference JB48586 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Equality and eligibility

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.