Research Assistant - Cambridge - Rand Europe Community Interest Company

Rand Europe Community Interest Company; Dinas Powys; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 35,000

Job description

Description

RAND Europe is a not-for-profit research institute with over 30 years of experience in conducting policy research. We believe that good research helps shape sound answers to pressing societal challenges, ultimately making communities safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous in the future.

The Science and Emerging Technology Team conducts a wide-ranging portfolio of policy research for diverse clients in the UK, Europe, and beyond. Our work covers:

1. Research and innovation ecosystems:
2. Emerging technology policy:
3. Environment and sustainability policy:
4. Civil Space:

We collaborate with universities and other research organisations, working with public, private, and third sector funders.

We seek an exceptional Research Assistant to support our work on Research and Innovation Ecosystems. The role will be based in our Cambridge office, with a hybrid format (minimum 1 day per week in the office). Fluency in English is essential, and proficiency in one or more other languages is an asset.

Science and Emerging Technology team members have backgrounds in science, innovation, and technology policy, as well as natural and social science disciplines. We are looking for applicants with a postgraduate degree (minimum Masters level) or equivalent experience in policy or science.

The role of the Research Assistant will include:

1. Supporting administrative tasks for the team and organisation, such as identifying business opportunities and collating documents for proposals.
2. Contributing to ongoing research by supporting literature reviews, desk research, interviews, data analysis, and preparing presentations and research briefs.
3. Drafting sections of reports and proposals under supervision, proofreading and checking documents, and providing corporate contributions through quality assurance and research ethics.

Requirements

1. A passion for supporting evidence generation to inform policy making on research and innovation ecosystems.
2. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
3. Good time management skills and ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
4. Ability to engage with new subjects quickly and intermediate Excel, PowerPoint, and Word skills.
5. Basic knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and their application.
6. Good report writing skills.

RAND Europe has an extensive skills and development programme to build your capabilities and equip you for challenging tasks. You will also have dedicated support for personal development.

Please note this is a 2-year fixed term position. We do not offer sponsorship for this role, so please ensure you have the ongoing right to work in the UK.

Benefits

1. Pension with 8% employer contribution;
2. 33 days holiday allowance, including Bank Holidays;
3. Annual salary review;
4. BUPA medical insurance;
5. Generous company sick pay;
6. Enhanced family friendly policies;
7. Group income protection scheme;
8. Group life assurance;
9. Compassionate leave;
10. Flexible working arrangements;
11. Learning and development opportunities;
12. Employee wellbeing training and support;
13. Fresh fruit every day;
14. Free on-site parking;
15. Cycle to work scheme;
16. Access to company bikes;
17. Service awards.

If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising a CV and covering letter. The closing date for applications is 6th April 2025.

If you have not been contacted within 30 days of the application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.