Social Researcher (Maternity Cover)

Working hours: 35 hours per week with hybrid working.  Staff have the option of working up to three days a week from home, with other requests considered via our flexible working policy. 

Location: SW1P 3HE 

Start date: June 2026 

Benefits: 30 days holiday, USS pension, hybrid working, Perkbox, cycle to work 

The National Institute of Economic and Social Research is Britain’s oldest, and one of its most prestigious, independent research institutes.  We specialise in applied social and economic research, combining high academic standards with relevance to policy making.  Our reputation for quality and independence, outstanding networks and unrivalled location at the heart of Westminster makes us the ideal base to build a national profile for academic or policy research that makes real impact. 

We are seeking a Social Researcher to join the Public Policy team on a fixed term basis (Maternity Cover). 

The post holder will design and carry out research on specific areas/workstreams within sizeable projects or on small standalone projects to support the relevant Project Leader and other research colleagues.  They will work alongside more senior team members to contribute to the activities of the team, including research proposals and reports.  They will undertake general project administration.

You will have had experience of:

1. Conducting qualitative research
2. Working with qualitative and quantitative datasets.
3. Analysing and interpreting data to generate evidence-based conclusions.
4. Managing multiple competing priorities to meet strict deadlines.
5. Working independently and as part of a team to achieve specific outcomes.

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

1. MSc/MA degree in sociology, or another relevant quantitative or qualitative social science, or equivalent.
2. Awareness and understanding of a range of research techniques and methodologies, particularly quantitative and qualitative approaches.
3. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas and information to different audiences.
4. High level of attention to detail, with the ability to ensure accuracy of complex reports and data sets.
5. Ability to build and maintain strong internal and external relationships.
6. Strong interest in real world social policy and policy developments.

To apply for this role, please send a full CV and a supporting statement of no more than 1,000 words setting out how you meet the essential requirements outlined above.  Please address these one by one, numbering each point as above, to ensure that we are able to fully consider how your experience, skills and abilities meet the needs of the post.  Please refer to the job description and person specification for full details of the role.

Applications should be sent to the HR Manager, via email by clicking on the 'Apply' button above (e:hr@niesr.ac.uk).  In your application, please include the following:

• Your right to work in the UK
• Your approximate available start date 

Closing date for applications: Sunday 26^th April 2026

Interviews to be held:  Week beginning 18^th May

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