Senior Economist (Fixed Term, 6 Months)

Working hours: 35 hours per week, open to flexible working.

Start Date: 28^th September 2026

Location: 2 Dean Trench Street SW1P 3HE.

Benefits: 30 days holiday plus bank holidays, USS pension 

The National Institute of Economic and Social Research is Britain’s oldest independent research institute and among its most prestigious. We produce high-quality applied social and economic research with direct policy relevance. Based in Westminster, our reputation, independence and networks provide an ideal platform for impactful academic and policy research.

The successful candidate will work on the following projects: 

1. analysing regional inequalities, including the use of NIESR’s regional model NiReMS
2. modelling employment supporting health interventions
3. micro-macro linked simulation to evaluate the impact of major income support policies on health inequalities
4. analysing UK living standards 

This is an exciting role where you are encouraged to explore your interests and passions and develop your research interests, notably your quantitative skills.  You will design and carry out research and lead on some of the above research projects in your developing areas of expertise.  Under the guidance of more senior colleagues, you will be supported to build and cultivate external relationships and contribute to the drafting of research bids and proposals.  You will also have opportunities to lead on proposals. 

The essential requirements we are looking for in the successful candidate are:

Experience 

1. Working on research projects from inception to completion and achieving high quality results.
2. Managing multiple competing priorities to meet strict deadlines.   
3. Using a range of research techniques and methodologies, notably quantitative approaches and data analysis
4. Analysing and interpreting data to generate evidence-based conclusions.
5. Contributing to the drafting of research bids and proposals.
6. Working independently and as part of a team to achieve specific outcomes.
7. Constructively challenging the accepted ways of thinking/doing things, and thinking critically to develop new idea, approaches, and ways of working. 

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities 

1. PhD in economics or another relevant quantitative social science, or equivalent.
2. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in an audience appropriate way.
3. High level of attention to detail, with the ability to ensure the accuracy of complex reports and data sets.
4. Ability to build and maintain strong internal and external relationships.
5. Knowledge of standard software packages and standard data analysis packages.
6. Strong interest in real world economic and policy developments. 

To apply

To apply for this role, please send full CV and a supporting statement of no more than 1,500 words setting how you meet the essential requirements outlined above.  Please number each point and address these one at a time 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 attached job description and person specification for full details of the role. You must also specify your earliest start date for the position.

Applications should be sent to Kirsty Pearce-Perkins via the 'Apply' button above (E: hr@niesr.ac.uk).  

Closing date for applications is Wednesday 2^nd September 2026.  We may interview suitable candidates as they apply, so early application is encouraged.  We reserve the right to make an appointment before the closing date.

Advert information