Research Assistant - Science and Emerging Technology

Rand; Hartford; Hybrid; GBP 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A non-profit research organization in the UK is looking for a Research Assistant for a two-year fixed-term position. The role requires support for research teams, preparation of presentations, and coordination of meetings. Ideal candidates hold a postgraduate degree and possess strong communication skills along with basic knowledge of methodologies. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits, including an 8% pension contribution and 33 days of holiday allowance.

Benefits

Pension – 8% employer contribution

33 days holiday allowance

Annual salary review

BUPA medical insurance

Generous company sick pay

Enhanced family-friendly policies

Flexible working arrangements

Employee wellbeing training

Fresh fruit every day

Free on-site parking

Cycle-to-work scheme

Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
• Basic knowledge of qualitative and quantitative methodologies.
• Basic report-writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Support project teams in research by conducting literature reviews and interviews.
• Prepare presentations and research briefs.
• Coordinate meetings and events, including taking minutes.

Skills

Written and verbal communication skills

Report writing

Basic knowledge of qualitative methodologies

Basic knowledge of quantitative methodologies

Proficiency in Excel

Proficiency in PowerPoint

Proficiency in Word

Education

Postgraduate degree (MSc or PhD) in a relevant field

Job description

About RAND Europe

RAND Europe is an independent, not‑for‑profit research organisation whose mission is to help improve policy and decision‑making through rigorous and independent research and analysis. We benefit the public interest through the impact and wide dissemination of over 200 projects per year. Our work at its most impactful changes policy, practice and process to the benefit of the public good. RAND Europe has approximately 180 staff across offices in Cambridge, Brussels, and the Netherlands. Our staff represents 22 nationalities, speaks over 20 languages and covers 31 academic disciplines.

Our Science and Emerging Technology (SET) group conducts a wide‑range portfolio of policy research for a diverse client base in the UK, Europe and beyond, covering:

• Research and innovation policy – analysis of research and innovation systems, portfolio evaluations, research strategy development, landscape reviews, research culture.
• Emerging technology policy – analysis of trends, applications and impacts of new and emerging technologies such as AI, biotechnology, quantum technology and virtual reality, including societal and policy implications.
• Energy and environment policy – energy innovation, climate risk and policy, food systems and strategy, green jobs and skills, transport and future analysis of environmental and sustainability issues.

Research Assistant – Fixed‑term (2 years)

We are looking for exceptional Research Assistants to join our Cambridge office as part of an interdisciplinary team. The role is a two‑year fixed‑term position with a flexible hybrid working pattern; you will be expected to be present in the office at least one day per week. Fluency in English is essential; proficiency in other languages is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Support project teams in research by conducting literature reviews, interviews, supporting and transcribing interviews, and undertaking analysis of quantitative and qualitative data.
• Prepare presentations and research briefs.
• Coordinate meetings and events, including taking minutes.
• Analyse calls for tender to identify proposal requirements, with supervision.
• Support the collation of administrative documents for proposals.
• Draft sections of reports under supervision.
• Proofread and check documents.
• Support RAND processes such as quality assurance and research ethics.
• Provide occasional corporate support with administrative tasks.
• Communicate with clients with supervision.

Qualifications and Experience

• Postgraduate degree (MSc or PhD) or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
• Basic knowledge of qualitative and quantitative methodologies and their application.
• Basic report‑writing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Intermediate proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint and Word.

Job Details

• Contract: Fixed‑term, 2 years.
• Location: Cambridge office; office attendance at least once per week.
• Salary: £28,000 per annum.
• Right to work: You must have the ongoing right to work in the UK; no sponsorship is available.

Benefits

• Pension – 8 % employer contribution.
• 33 days holiday allowance, including bank holidays.
• Annual salary review.
• BUPA medical insurance.
• Generous company sick pay.
• Enhanced family‑friendly policies.
• Group income protection scheme.
• Group life assurance.
• Compassionate leave.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Employee wellbeing training and support.
• Fresh fruit every day.
• Free on‑site parking.
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Access to company bikes.
• Service awards.