Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Cambridge invites applications for a Research Assistant/Research Associate to work on a project measuring data depreciation for UK National Accounts. The role requires a strong econometrics background and familiarity with accessing UK data, including ONS datasets and the Secure Research Service.

You will contribute to developing empirical depreciation estimates, plus evaluation of valuation methodologies and quality measures for AI-driven data use.

Qualifications

• PhD (submitted or nearly submitted) or demonstrable advanced research skills.
• Strong econometric/quantitative methods background.
• Experience engaging with policy-makers or external audiences is welcome.

Responsibilities

• Deliver and contribute to the project on data depreciation and UK National Accounts.
• Develop empirical estimates of data depreciation rates using UK data sources.
• Assist in shaping methodology, quality measures, and potential publication outputs.

Skills

Econometrics

Policy engagement

UK data access

Academic publishing

Education

PhD (submitted or near submission)

Tools

Stata

R

Job description

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant/Research Associate at the new Bennett School of Public Policy (BSPP) in the Faculty of Human, Social and Political Science. Funding is available from February 2027.This is an exciting opportunity to join the Bennett School of Public Policy (BSPP) in its early stages https://www.bennettschool.cam.ac.uk/ . 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 Assistant/Research Associate to deliver until 31st March 2028 a project on the depreciation of data assets. The 2025 System of National Accounts explicitly recognized the need to account for data as an intangible asset. This project contributes to the development of an operational framework for measuring data as an asset in the UK National Accounts. Building on ONS's experimental estimates of data investment using the sum-of-costs approach, the project will develop empirical estimates of data depreciation rates for capital stock calculations. The project will also assess the valuation methodology with a view to identifying quality measures, to better capture data's exchange value as AI use increases across the economy.This position offers an excellent opportunity for a researcher with a strong background in econometrics and familiarity with accessing UK data from the Office for National Statistics including the Secure Research Service. Applications from candidates with backgrounds in public policy, and with experience of engaging with external audiences, including policy-makers, are particularly welcome.Candidates for the post of Research Associate should normally have a PhD (submitted or nearly submitted at the time of application), 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 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 Ranges: Research Associate (Grade 7): £38,441-46,970. Those on an academic pathway who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5): £35,302-£36,320 moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.In order for applications to be considered applicants must upload: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 forA Curriculum Vitae (CV), to include full details of educational qualifications and academic experience, and a list of publicationsA recent writing sample (maximum 6,000 words)The contact details of two refereesFixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31st March 2028 in the first instance.The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on Tuesday 24th November 2026 and interviews are expected to take place shortly after.Further information about the BSPP can be found at: https://www.bennettschool.cam.ac.uk/Applications should be made online. Applicants must provide the names and contact details of two referees who are familiar with their work.Enquiries about applications should be addressed to Gita Aminpour: [e-mail] quote reference UP51567 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.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.Apply online