Research Officer Jobs

Youth Futures Foundation is the national What Works Centre for youth employment, with a specific focus on marginalised young people.   

We find and generate high-quality evidence to better understand England’s’ youth unemployment and inactivity challenge, and most importantly to learn what solutions work to address this. We do this through bringing together the best evidence already in existence and build on this by conducting original research and testing and evaluating promising interventions to produce much needed new evidence where there are gaps.  

We are looking for a dynamic Research Officer to support the creation and collation of research and evidence that has a transformative effect on the youth employment ecosystem.

You will work with the Research Managers and other members of the Impact and Evidence team to:

• support the design, delivery and management of commissioned and in-house research projects striving to understand the complex, systemic issues faced by marginalised young people in their employment journey, as well as potential solutions.
• This is an exciting opportunity to work directly with young people on research projects. A part of the role will also be working with other teams, such as policy and communications, to translate complex research and evaluation findings into accessible, user-centred outputs and briefings for internal and external use. 

We currently operate a hybrid model of two-days per week in the office and three-days from home.

For a full job description and person spec, please download the Recruitment Pack.

HOW TO APPLY

Click on the 'APPLY' button below to apply online. The closing date for applications is Sunday 2 March at 23:59.

The young people we aim to serve – and the challenges they face - are all unique. We are looking to build a team that reflects this diversity. Our commitment to inclusion across race, gender, age, class, religion, identity, and experience forms the cornerstone of our work. We are an equal opportunities, Living Wage and Disability Confident employer and encourage applications from a diverse range of backgrounds representative of our communities.  We offer a welcoming and inclusive workplace, where employees are encouraged to have a voice.

The Research Officer will work on TASO’s Research and Evaluation programme to develop a better understanding of what works to support widening participation and student success. Under the guidance of a Research Manager, the Research Officer will be involved in a wide range of research and evaluation activities.

One key focus will be to work with the Research Manager to deliver impact evaluation projects with project partners (namely higher education providers). These typically involve randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi experimental designed (QEDs), but also include theories of change and qualitative research methods.

The Officer may also help commission new projects designed to develop evaluation guidance for practitioners, evaluators and researchers from multiple institutions. They will work across these projects to manage and monitor progress, collate findings, analyse data and help steer the overall programme of work. They may also undertake internal research projects themselves, including synthesis of secondary research; conducting qualitative, quantitative and/or survey research.

The role will involve substantial stakeholder management, liaison with various interested parties outside TASO, convening of stakeholder groups and supporting training sessions. The Research Officer will have strong communication skills and be able to convey their findings, including complex quantitative information and advanced evaluation methods (particularly causal impact evaluation methods), clearly and will support TASO to influence broader policy discussion. They will work both independently and—on more complex tasks—under supervision.

• Remuneration: Starting salary £36,383 per annum
• Location: Central London. This post will be hybrid with the expectation that the post holder will be in the office two days a week in addition to attending office-based project meetings. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.
• Holiday: 27 days per year, plus public/bank holidays.
• Pension: Employer contribution 8%

How to apply

Please visit our website to see the full job description and personal specification. To apply, submit your CV and the completed application form.

The deadline for applications is on Monday 10 March, 09:00 (GMT).

Interviews are expected to be held during w/c 24 March, and candidates will be issued a task to complete in advance. 

Do you have experience of delivering quantitative and qualitative research? Then join Shelter as a Research Officer and you could soon be playing a vital role at the heart of our Research team.

About the role

Working closely with a Senior Research Officer, we’ll rely on you to conduct research and analytical projects from initial concept through to completion. You’ll deliver effective research including designing questionnaires, selecting samples, interviewing respondents, interrogating data and writing up findings. Through your research, you’ll work with a multitude of colleagues in our policy, campaigns, media and public affairs teams to develop and carry out analytical projects in support of Shelter’s strategic priorities.

We’ll rely on you to provide advice and consultancy to Shelter colleagues on all aspects of research, and you’ll undertake analysis on a range of government and independent data sources on housing and homelessness. You’ll represent Shelter’s brand by presenting research findings at conferences, seminars and training events and ensure that our research is properly integrated into the work of our organisation. It’s a really exciting time to join our team and we’re happy to talk about flexible working, personal growth and a place where you can be yourself.

About you

To succeed, you’ll need experience of working in a social research field and have strong skills to manage and analyse data. You’ll also need a good understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods, plus strong written and verbal communication skills. Knowledge of housing and homelessness issues, whether through work or personal experience, would be useful too, although this not as important as your enthusiasm and genuine interest in this important social issue.

Apply to be part of our team and be the change you want to see in society.

Benefits 

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.

Shelter helps millions of people every year struggling with bad housing or homelessness through our advice, support and legal services. And we campaign to make sure that, one day, no one will have to turn to us for help. We’re here so no one has to fight bad housing or homelessness on their own.

We are happy to talk about flexible working, personal growth, and to promote a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.

About the team

The Research Team works across Shelter to develop innovative research, analytics and insight to identify opportunities to influence, drive policy change and inform Shelter’s strategic direction.

The Research Team carries out a range of work to identify the nature and causes of housing and homelessness problems. This includes primary and secondary research, both conducted in-house and commissioned, into Shelter clients and the even greater number of people in housing need, many of which often don’t seek help. We also try to understand and anticipate future trends using analysis of government policy and economic data. All of this is combined to feed our policy influencing, public campaigning and service design and delivery.

Any applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.

About Shelter

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet everyday millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.

Safeguarding statement 

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

We are seeking a dedicated Senior Research Officer to join our Policy and Research department. The Senior Research Officer will support the development and implementation of research projects, analyse data, contribute to report writing and policy recommendations. The role includes supporting the creation, development and analysis of our flagship Youth Voice Census and Good Youth Employment Benchmark reports. 

Key Responsibilities:

Research Leadership:

• Design and lead complex research projects that align with the organisation's strategic objectives, including the annual Youth Voice Census and Good Youth Employment Benchmark.

• Develop and implement research methodologies to ensure high-quality data collection and analysis.

• Mentor and guide junior researchers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.

Data Analysis:

• Utilise advanced statistical tools and software to analyse data and identify trends.

• Provide actionable insights and recommendations based on data analysis to inform strategic decision-making.

• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of research data and findings.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and other relevant parties.

• Represent the organisation in high-level meetings and negotiations.

• Communicate research findings and policy recommendations effectively to stakeholders.

Report Writing:

• Lead the creation of detailed and comprehensive reports that effectively communicate research findings and policy recommendations.

• Ensure reports are well-structured, clear, and tailored to the needs of stakeholders.

• Utilise appropriate formatting and visual aids to enhance readability.

Other Activity

• Coordinate meetings for the SLT with external stakeholders or internal meetings that are required. 

• Prepare information and or briefings and reports as required.

• Maintain a stakeholder list, keeping key information up to date and stakeholders engaged with our activities.

• Attend meetings to represent Youth Employment UK and provide a written summary of key information post the meeting.

• Support with newsletters.

• Support with relevant campaigns and promote our activity across a range of channels.

• Keep up to date the key Google Drive and Monday.Com folders relating to Policy & Research.

The main responsibilities of this role are as described here. As our needs as a not-for-profit organisation change, we may need to make reasonable changes from time to time, in consultation with you.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Degree level in a relevant field. 

• Experience in research, data analysis, or a related role; experience in policy research is a plus.

• Strong understanding of statistics and data analysis

• A proven ability to monitor, analyse survey data 

• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, Excel).

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

• Strong organisational and time management skills.

• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy.

• Passionate about research and its application to policy-making.

• Ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines.

Research and Evidence Officer
Reporting to: Deputy CEO, with dotted line to Campaigns and Influencing Manager
Salary: £31,200 per annum
Contract: Full-time, permanent. We are open to discussing flexible or part-time working.
Benefits: Access to a defined contribution pension and 25 days annual leave per year (pro rata) + three working days between Christmas and New Year.
Location: Hybrid working, with 2-3 days in the office (currently core team days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays) Shoreditch, London E2 8JF

About the role

Agenda’s Research and Evidence Officer will play a key role in our data, evidence and research and workstreams.

They will design, hold and deliver research projects; centre women and girls’ voices through coproduction; share evidence and insights with the wider team, trustees, and funders; and produce a range of materials, including reports and briefings, for different kinds of external audiences.

They will gather a range of evidence through data collection and desk-based research, and carry out research, using interviews, focus groups and data analysis as well as less-traditional research methods.

Responsibilities include:

• Conduct desk-based, primary, secondary, qualitative and quantitative research, including; submitting Freedom of Information requests; analysing data and evidence from a range of sources; conducting interviews and focus groups; and other evidence gathering as necessary to develop clear cases for change across the issues Agenda Alliance works on.
• Design and maintain systems, project plans and research methodologies to develop evidence across Agenda’s priority areas, centring voices of women and girls with lived experience of the areas we work on, and the expertise of Alliance members.
• Produce engaging ways of sharing Agenda’s learning and communicating research findings, including through writing reports and briefings, and providing other members of the team with evidence and insights for their work, including the Communications and Campaigns Coordinator, and the Policy and Public Affairs Officer.
• Grow and maintain relationships with a network of organisations, practitioners and experts, including systems of engagement and intelligence gathering (e.g. online, focus groups, roundtables, project visits).
• Work closely with the rest of the team to develop evidence to inform Agenda’s policy positions, campaigns and influencing.
• Engaging with stakeholders, decision makers, politicians and government officials as appropriate.
• Work with the wider team to embed and utilise effective monitoring and impact evaluation processes for our research activities.
• Lead on embedding anti-racist and trauma-informed approaches into our evidence and research practice.

About you

We’re looking for an experienced researcher, with a background working with experts by experience, committed to embedding women and girls’ voices in research in a trauma-informed way.

We’re seeking someone who can demonstrate compassionate, person-centred research skills, an ability to understand and analyse quantitative and qualitative data, and an appetite for designing new projects and processes to uncover evidence and insights.

This is an exciting and varied role, providing the right candidate with a unique blend of in-depth research; using evidence to inform policy-influencing and campaigns; and engaging experts by experience. It is ideal for someone who has experience of research and data analysis, but is interested in centering the lived experience of women and girls, alongside the front-line experience of our members, to develop insights for change.

We are less interested in your qualifications, and more interested in your values, background and both lived and learned experience. We are actively trying to diversify our team, so if you are from the Black, Asian and minoritised communities, identify as LGBTQ+, have a disability, and/or bring lived experience relevant to the areas we work in, we would love to hear from you.

Closing date: Midnight, Sunday 23 March 2025
We will shortlist by 25 March and first round interviews will be held on Monday 31 March.
If you are shortlisted following your first interview, there will be a second round on Thursday 3 April in which you will discuss the role and your approach with one or two experts by experience who we work with.
Please keep those dates clear if you apply.

Interested?

Please scroll down to the bottom of the advert to download the job pack, here you will find full information about the position.
When applying through the job board, you will need to send us your CV and cover letter of no more than two pages answering the questions below. In your cover letter, please state where you saw the role advertised. 

Cover letter questions:

1. Why does this role appeal to you, and what about your experience makes you feel it is a good fit for you?
2. Tell us about a piece of research, data analysis or evidence production which you feel particularly proud of. What went well, what impact did it have, and what learning would you take from this into future projects?
3. What opportunities do you see to embed and amplify the voices of women and girls with lived 

Equal opportunities 
Agenda Alliance selects all candidates for interview based on their skills, qualifications, experience and ability to do the role advertised. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability (physical or learning), gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

We will provide reasonable support to disabled applicants throughout the recruitment process. Please contact us to identify any additional support that you may require to enable you to make an application.

Because our work is about centring women and girls’ experiences, and our organisation is led by and for women and girls, this post is open to women only (exempt under the Equality Act 2010 Schedule 9, part 1). When Agenda refers to women and girls, we mean cisgender, intersex, and transgender women and girls, alongside nonbinary people who experience misogyny.

APPLICATIONS SENT WITHOUT A COVER LETTER WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

No agencies please.

Are you passionate about transforming lives and shaping the future of healthcare for people affected by Crohn’s and Colitis?  We are searching for a dedicated individual to lead the development and delivery of a new Crohn’s & Colitis UK evidence and insight programme, building the evidence base and delivering insight across the full range of experience of all those affected by Crohn’s and Colitis to support the strategic aims of the charity.

About Us

We're the UK's leading charity for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. A diagnosis of Crohn’s or Colitis is life-changing. Over 500,000 people in the UK are living with a lifelong disease many people have never heard of, and for which there is no known cure.

Crohn’s & Colitis UK funds research, provides award winning information and support and raises vital awareness by increasing the public’s understanding of the conditions, and what it means to live with debilitating symptoms. But we need to do more. We need to be a louder voice in the marketplace. Our ambitious plans for 2025, will help to make a real difference to every supporter’s journey with us. If this excites you - join us!

Role Overview

As a member of the Senior Executive Team you will be responsible for translating the strategic direction of the charity into tactical plans for evidence and research to achieve the charity’s overall aims. In leading on the delivery of the Crohn’s & Colitis UK research strategy, you will be heavily focused on providing oversight of our programme of research grants and establishing networks, partners and alliances to drive increased investment in research. The remit will also involve oversight and responsibility for the day to day management, direction and leadership of the Evidence and Research teams.

 About You

You will have acquired a high level of experience of delivering programmes of evidence and insight in one or more of the voluntary, medical, health or research sectors, coupled with a solid understanding of the UK health research environment.  You will have developed and operationalised strategies, be an accomplished team leader, and have a proven ability engage and influence a diverse range of senior stakeholders

Please see our Recruitment Pack for details of our full Job Description and Person Specification.

Our Location

We are based in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, so we are easily accessible by road and rail. In this role, there is plenty of scope for working from home,  although there will be times when you will need to be at face-to-face meetings. You will be required to attend meetings in Hatfield/London twice a month, as well as two Directorate days each year.  In addition, the charity meets four times annually at it’s office in Hatfield (or a location in London) for its’ ‘All Staff Together’ days of which attendance is mandatory.

Benefits 

• 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing one day per year up to 30 days
• Pension scheme
• Flexible working options
• Enhanced maternity, adoption and paternity pay
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• Wellbeing programme
• Interest free loan for season tickets
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free parking and secure bike locks
• Training and development financial support and/or study leave
• Performance review and development scheme

We are an inclusive employer and offer equal opportunities to all regardless of an individual’s age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

We are not a licensed sponsor at this time. Any offer of employment will be made subject to the applicant residing in the UK and a valid right to work in the UK being provided.

Context and Background

We are recruiting a Senior Policy Research Officer to develop and deliver our early years and health policy work to deliver real change and reform in the best interests of children.

The post holder will work in the UK/England part of the Policy and Public Affairs Team, focussed on influencing the Westminster Government. The role involves a variety of responsibilities including policy research, policy development and public affairs. This is a great opportunity to drive policy work in an exciting policy area, by building a strong evidence base and contributing to effective influencing strategies.

Job purpose

The Senior Policy Research Officer will be responsible for undertaking policy research to achieve the NSPCC's strategic goals, using their skills and experience to strengthen the NSPCC's impact on public policy relating to early years and health. In doing so, they will make a significant contribution to protecting the youngest children from abuse and neglect.

Key relationships - Internal

• Reports to Policy and Public Affairs Manager
• Colleagues in the wider Policy and Public Affairs team across the UK
• Colleagues in the Research and Evidence team
• Colleagues in the Media and Campaigns teams
• Colleagues in the Services directorate (to ensure policy development takes into account experiences of frontline professionals)
• Colleagues in the Participation Unit (to ensure the involvement of young people in policy and influencing work)

Key relationships - External

• Key civil servants and policy advisers in the UK Government
• MPs and Peers in the UK Parliament
• Colleagues in relevant voluntary and statutory agencies
• Practitioner bodies
• Key academics, researchers and research networks

Main duties and responsibilities

Policy development:

• Develop and maintain a high level of expertise on policy priority areas, with lead responsibility for early years and health policy.
• Scope, develop and refine NSPCC policies on priority policy issues, putting forward the economic case for change where possible.

Policy research:

• Contribute to the delivery of our research activity, working with teams across the NSPCC to assess policy andevidence needs, then design and undertake impactful research projects to address these.
• Manage policy research projects from development and commissioning stage through to completion, providing direction and supervision to ensure the highest standards of delivery.
• Analyse a wide range of primary and secondary sources of evidence (such as official data sets and statistics, policy documents, academic literature, economic analyses, FOls and survey data) to develop innovative and evidence-based policy solutions to complex problems.

Public affairs:

• Prepare high-quality briefings, summaries and consultation responses for both external and internal audiences.
• Develop and maintain a network of key contacts across parliament, the civil service and civil society, using this network to amplify the NSPCC's voice and take advantage of opportunities to influence policy making.
• Represent the NSPCC at relevant internal and external advisory groups, meetings and stakeholder events.

Responsibilities within the Strategy and Knowledge Directorate

• A commitment to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people
• To maintain anoverview of child protection policy and practice
• To maintain an awareness of own and other's health and safety and comply with NSPCC's Health andSafety procedures
• An active commitment to promoting EDI, safeguarding and trauma informed practice
• An agile approach to work
• To maintain and develop competence in the use of IT systems

Person specification

1. Strong support for the NSPCC's mission and values, combined with a good understanding of public policy relating to child protection issues, and knowledge of the wider legal, government and media context.

2. Excellent policy development skills, with the ability to research, develop and refine innovative policy solutions to complex problems.

3. Proven ability to undertake research (qualitative and/or quantitative) and analyse the findings, with an ability to design methodologically robust and ethically sound research that is delivered to a high standard and agreed timescales.

4. Experience of successfully presenting research accurately to make a clear and compelling case for policy and legislative change.

5. Excellent communication skills including the ability to write concisely and persuasively in a variety of formats for a variety of audiences, and to deliver engaging oral presentations.

6. Good public affairs skills, with strong knowledge of parliamentary processes, sound political judgement, and experience of contributing to the delivery of influencing strategies to secure support from decision makers in parliament and beyond.

7. Ability to work on own initiative with strong organisational and project management skills, including demonstratabl eexperience of project managing small research projects, working at speed and under pressure when required, whilesuccessfully managing project progress, risks, and quality.

8. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build constructive working relationships with external stakeholders, aswell as to work effectively as part of an internal, cross-departmental team.

Location (UK): Office Hybrid* - London
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Benefits: Read more about the excellent benefits we offer on our profile page
Travel: Occasional travel to our offices

Join us and use your skills, knowledge, passion and energy to help us achieve a future free from arthritis.

At Versus Arthritis, we won’t rest until everyone with arthritis has access to the treatment and care they need to live the life they choose with real hope of a cure in the future.

The Chief Executive’s Office supports the work of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in leading the charity efficiently and effectively, as well as working with trustees, the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), staff and volunteers from across the charity. The Chief Executive’s Office is also home to our UK Advocacy and Health Intelligence department who are responsible for leading UK strategy development and delivery across advocacy (policy, public affairs, campaigning) and health intelligence, working closely with colleagues in the Devolved Nations to ensure effective delivery of the strategy in each nation.

About the role

The researcher will provide expertise on the latest research evidence on topics of strategic importance, providing a responsive but robust and balanced assessment of the available evidence to shape the charity’s UK advocacy agenda, and drive organisational priorities.

About you

If your knowledge, skills and experience include the following then we’d love to hear from you:

• In-depth knowledge and experience in working in health-related, biomedical or medical research.
• Experience in the synthesis and evaluation of research evidence across a range of sources (including grey literature), including in the design and delivery of rapid reviews.
• Experience in communicating clearly and succinctly to non-technical and non-expert audiences, through both written formats (eg briefing papers) and verbally (eg via presentations and meetings with senior stakeholders), with a robust approach to accessibility throughout communication.
• Educated to PhD level and/or can consistently demonstrate PhD level skills in framing research questions and the ability to evaluate research across a range of methodologies and topic areas in a health-related, biomedical or medical field.  
• Ability to work independently, prioritise effectively and successfully lead rapid-turnaround projects delivering to short deadlines.
• Excellent attention to detail, consistently producing accurate and robust work without substantial oversight.
• Ability to think strategically; solving complex problems and making decisions based on the structured analysis of the problem, the identification and critical evaluation of multiple relevant sources of evidence and assessment of competing priorities to achieve a goal.
• The ability to shape and design a research question that will deliver actionable intelligence to shape decision making.
• Experience of using research insights to influence senior leaders.

*As a hybrid worker the expectation is that you will spend around 40% of your working time in our office spaces or working in community settings. As an inclusive employer we will consider home-based working for anyone where office-based hybrid working would be a barrier to being able to work for us, for example for someone living with a long-term health condition or disability.

ShareAction is an independent charity and an expert on responsible investment. We work to build a world where the financial system serves our planet and its people. We set ambitious standards for how financial institutions, through their investment decisions, can protect our planet and its people and campaign for this approach to become the norm. We convene shareholders to collectively push companies to tackle the climate crisis, protect nature, improve workers’ rights and shape healthier societies. In the UK and EU, we advocate for financial regulation that has society’s best interests at its core.

Position

ShareAction’s Financial Sector Research team works towards holding financial institutions accountable for their impact on climate change, human rights, biodiversity, and other important issues.

Asset managers, insurance companies and banks hold a huge amount of influence over the world’s largest companies through their investment, lending and underwriting activities. While many of these financial institutions publicly claim to be taking environmental and social issues seriously, often, these claims do not hold up to scrutiny.

In this role, you will have many opportunities to challenge the financial sector by contributing to:

• Our financial sector benchmarks, covering insurance companies, banks and asset managers.
• Coordination with civil society allies to maximise our combined impact.
• Engagement with relevant institutions and providing them with detailed recommendations for improvement.
• Communication of our research findings externally, for example, on webinars.

Working alongside the rest of the Financial Sector Research team, you will contribute to ShareAction’s key reports ranking financial institutions. This involves collecting information from institutions and databases, analysing quantitative and qualitative data, producing engaging graphics to communicate results and translating this analysis into actionable steps for financial institutions to take. You will collaborate with teams across ShareAction and may join meetings with financial institutions, other NGOs, or regulators to discuss this research. We will ensure that you receive sufficient support and oversight to ensure you feel comfortable and knowledgeable in delivering this bold and challenging work.

This is a very exciting time to be joining the team. In 2025, we are undertaking our comprehensive benchmarks of the insurance sector and reinvigorating the survey of the European banking sector. In this rapidly evolving field, we are looking for a person with excellent research and communication skills and a passion for making a difference to join our team.

Key responsibilities

• Analysing quantitative and qualitative data, primarily writing reports on insurance companies and/or banks in 2025.
• Using Excel to analyse and organise large data sets.
• Instigating, developing and managing relationships with financial institutions, inviting them to participate in our research, as well as answering technical questions.
• Presenting findings of our work to external and internal stakeholders, most frequently through webinars and presentations, including the coordination of these events.
• Instigating, developing and managing relationships with civil society stakeholders.
• Organising and planning work with a high level of autonomy and providing guidance to colleagues across workstreams where relevant.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of relevant projects, as well as contributing to funding bids and reporting on KPIs to funders where appropriate.
• Keeping up to date on relevant news and information on the financial sector and the thematic areas covered by our work.

What you’ll bring to the team

We welcome anyone who shares our passion for environmental and social justice through the transformation of the financial sector. Please feel free to apply even if you’re not sure you tick every box.

Essential

• Excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and a proven ability to conduct qualitative and quantitative research.
• A broad understanding of how the financial sector works and how financial institutions can have an impact on environmental and social issues.
• A keen interest in driving the finance sector to better serve people and planet.
• Excellent organisational skills and a proven ability to manage competing demands while still meeting deadlines.
• Strong communication skills in written and spoken English.
• Competency with Microsoft Excel, including writing formulae and building charts.
• Strong teamwork skills and the ability to work collaboratively.
• A passion for ShareAction’s vision and mission.

Desirable

• Subject matter knowledge in climate change, biodiversity or human/labour rights.
• Experience in or with the finance sector; an understanding of responsible investment and its implications for different types of financial institutions.
• Experience giving presentations.
• Any experience in programming, particularly an interest in learning Python for data processing.
• Experience with managing relationships with external stakeholders.
• Experience with Microsoft Office 365, particularly SharePoint.
• Experience with CRM systems, ideally Salesforce.

ShareAction currently operates a hybrid working policy, with staff permitted to work either in our office or remotely. The Financial Sector Research team normally meets in the office once a week, with some flexibility possible.

What we will do for you

We are a fast-paced organisation that has grown substantially over the past few years. We recognise that our people work hard to advocate for responsible investment and drive meaningful engagement with those who have the power to create a brighter future. Every day, they bring their expertise, passion and persistence to build a world where the financial system serves our people and planet. We want to ensure we provide the right environment for our colleagues to thrive, and we are committed to improving our employee offer where possible.

Currently, we are pleased to offer:

• A commitment to flexible working: over 60% of our employees have some sort of flexible working arrangement in place.
• Hybrid working: we are committed to supporting our staff to work in a way that suits their lifestyle and meets the requirements of their role.
• Internal promotion and development opportunities: we offer a range of ways to improve your skills and focus on what you love, including promotion, secondment, or sideways development opportunities. For some levels of roles, we also offer direct progression.
• The opportunity to help make a difference: we tackle some of the world’s biggest social and environmental challenges. We offer opportunities for you to develop your skills and experience in a friendly, flexible and supportive working environment.
• A unionised work environment: our staff have the opportunity to join the union and are supported by our recognised union, Unite. We regularly consult and negotiate with our employees on workplace matters ranging from working conditions to pay.
• Regular in-person meetings, including all-staff away days, retreats and directorate strategy days to create connected teams.
• 8% non-contributory pension, invested with NEST and their green funds.
• A healthcare cash plan with Westfield that gives you money back on your healthcare costs.
• An employee assistance programme: advice and support, lifestyle discounts and short-term counselling.
• 25 days’ annual leave (increasing with length of service) plus office closure at the end of the year, ensuring everyone gets time to switch off together.
• Enhanced family leave pay: up to 18 weeks paid at 90% for either parent.
• Enhanced sick pay: starting at 5 weeks’ full pay from day 1.
• Season ticket loan and cycle-to-work scheme.

ShareAction values and respects all differences in people (seen and unseen) and welcomes applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries. We are committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills, experiences and abilities, and we are working hard to provide an environment where all can bring their authentic selves to work. We know that some people won’t apply for a role unless they meet all the requirements listed in the job description. If this is the case for you, but you think you would excel in this role, we want to hear from you!

For further information and to apply, please visit our website via the Apply button.

Closing date: 9 am on Monday 17th March 2025.
First-round interviews: w/c 24th March 2025 (online).
Second-round interviews: w/c 31st March 2025 (online). 

To be considered for this post, you must be legally eligible to work in the UK; unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship.

About The Leadsom Foundation

The Leadsom Foundation is a new and ambitious charity. We support parents and carers around the world to give their baby the best start for life. We are global champions of the unique importance of the 1001 critical days, from pregnancy to age two. During this time, the building blocks for lifelong emotional and physical health are laid down. That’s why it is so important to support babies and families in the earliest years of life. 

We fund other charities and organisations that are delivering services for new families to help them give their babies the best start for life. We also fund pioneering research into what type of support works best to promote the healthy emotional and physical development of babies. Grant awards will take place twice a year.

The Role

We are seeking a positive, proactive, and detail-oriented Grants Officer to manage and oversee the development and excellence of our grant-making process. 

This is an exciting time to join us as we establish the charity and work to have the greatest impact on babies and their families. You will play a crucial role in ensuring that our funding reaches the people and projects where it will have the biggest impact.

As the Grants Officer, you will be responsible for the day-to-day administration and management of our grants programme. You will work closely with grant applicants, assess funding proposals, and support successful grantees throughout their journey.  This role reports to the Director of Research and Impact.

Location: Hybrid. Central London (SW1) with flexibility to work partly from home. Requirement to travel. 

Hours: 40 hours a week (flexible/part time is available) 

We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities.

The organisation

ImpactEd Group supports education and purpose-driven organisations to maximise their potential. We do this by helping our partners to be consistently impactful and operationally sustainable. The Group currently consists of:

• ImpactEd Evaluation, which works with schools, multi-academy trusts and education organisations, to analyse the impact of programmes, processes and interventions to help partners do more of what works and less of what doesn’t.

• ImpactEd Consulting, which offers strategic and operational support for its partners, to address challenges and underpin carefully managed growth.

• ImpactEd Philanthropy, supporting organisations seeking and providing funding.

• ImpactEd Data and AI, providing specialist support to manage the opportunities and risks of new technologies.

In addition to the practices, we are supported by several central functions, including research and external affairs, finance and operations, and our product team.

We are also home to The Engagement Platform (TEP).

The Opportunity

We are seeking an exceptional leader in research and evaluation to drive ImpactEd Group’s research strategy. Reporting to the Group Directors and Board, the Research Director will lead, design and represent high-quality research and evaluation outputs across ImpactEd Group, in support of our practices.

The Research Director will be responsible for overseeing research quality, outputs and methods across the Group. This role is ideal for an individual with a strong track record in research leadership, evaluation, and research partnerships. You will bring a pragmatic, evidence-based approach to research and implementation, with a deep understanding of the education sector.

Working across our practices, the Research Director will design methodologies for Targeted Research and Action Projects, support complex research partnerships and quality assurance. This will likely include, but not be limited to, research and evaluation design and delivery on key projects across our practices, supporting the delivery of Targeted Research and Action Projects, development and delivery of training for colleagues in research methodologies, reviewing proposals and reports, designing and leading research-based engagement with the sector (e.g. programme of webinars), writing articles, and representing the Group at events.

Alongside this, the successful candidate will play an active role in business development, bringing in revenue to the Group through lead generation, tender applications, and high-quality proposal writing and project design. As well as sitting on the Group Leadership Team, the Research Director will sit on the Practice Board of ImpactEd Evaluation, where they will support the practice leadership in the development of methodologies and training that will position the practice as the first port of call for education leaders who want to understand the impact of their work.

Research Assistant

We are seeking two Research Assistants to support the agile delivery of high quality, impactful autism research.

Join a pioneering research team and help shape the future for autistic people.

Position: Research Assistant (2 posts)
Salary: £30,000-£37,500 per annum
Location: London/Hybrid
Hours: Full-time (4-day working week)
Contract: Fixed-term, April 2025 – September 2026
Closing Date: 23:59, Thursday 06 March 2025

Interviews: 10-21 March 2025.

About the Role:

As Research Assistant you will support high-impact research projects focused on improving the lives of autistic people. Working alongside the Director of Research, senior research leads, and external partners, you will contribute to studies that support autistic individuals and their families, enhance employment opportunities, create neuro-inclusive spaces, inform evidence-based treatments for anxiety, and help change societal attitudes towards autism.

Each Research Assistant will lead one key project while contributing to a range of other impactful studies. This is an exciting opportunity to use your expertise in mixed methods research and neuro-divergence to drive meaningful change.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting applied research on autism, ADHD, and co-occurring conditions.
• Designing and delivering research using mixed methods, e.g., Delphi approaches, surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
• Using statistical analysis (R, SPSS, STATA) to generate insights.
• Write research reports for stakeholders from different audiences.
• Engaging with community advisors and industry partners to shape research outcomes.
• Managing project milestones, deliverables, and targets in an agile research environment.

About You:

This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced setting and is passionate about driving evidence-based change for the neuro-divergent community.

We are looking for motivated and skilled researchers with a passion for neurodiversity research.

Essential skills and experience include:

• A postgraduate degree in Psychology, Sociology, Health, Social Care, or Mental Health (fully awarded).
• At least two years of experience in a research assistant role.
• Strong theoretical understanding of the key topics, issues and intersectional factors affecting life outcomes of autistic people.
• Strong knowledge of autism and neurodiversity research methods.
• Experience of delivering mixed methods research and high-quality study design.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and data science (using R, SPSS, or STATA).
• Ability to manage multiple research projects, ensuring key milestones are met.
• Excellent collaboration skills, particularly in community co-production and stakeholder engagement.
• A self-motivated, meticulous, and adaptable approach to research.

If you are passionate about advancing autism research and committed to evidence-based advocacy, we would love to hear from you.

About the Organisation:

You will be working for the UK’s leading autism research charity. They collaborate with neurodivergent communities, researchers, the NHS, and industry partners to drive breakthroughs that enable autistic people to live happier, healthier, and longer lives. Research focuses on transforming employment opportunities, improving mental health support, and creating truly inclusive environments.

The charity are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Research Officer, Data Analyst, Social Science Researcher, Behavioural Scientist, or Clinical Research Coordinator. #INDNFP

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

As Head of Community Research and Impact you will lead a small but skilled team, delivering across our community research, impact and evaluation and communications functions. You will take a leading role in shaping and delivering our strategic vision for community-led research. Our approach to research aims to rebalance the role and power that communities have in deciding how research is informed, delivered and used to improve lives for Lambeth residents. This role will champion collaborative research practices, foster meaningful partnerships, and ensure our work drives tangible, positive change for the communities we serve.

High Trees has built a strong foundation for its community-led research work over the past few years and has developed two flagship community research partnerships: Lambeth Peer Action Collective and Lambeth Community Research Network. We are now seeking an exceptional individual to significantly expand our work in this area to further build local evidence of community need, to work with communities to identify solutions and appropriate responses to local challenges and to advocate for change to policy and practice where needed.

To be successful in this role you will need to be able to develop new research projects which incorporate meaningful community involvement and have the potential to lead to positive change. You will take the lead on the design of new research programmes, sourcing funding to support these programmes and ensuring research projects are completed to a high standard, including the production of high-quality research outputs.

You will also lead the development of infrastructure around community-led research in Lambeth. Through the Lambeth Community Research Network, voluntary and community organisations will be able to access training, resources and networking opportunities that will enable them to build their capacity in developing and delivering new community-led research projects. The network will also create new opportunities for research collaborations between academics, public sector bodies and voluntary and community sector organisations.

As Head of Service, another key function of your role is the leadership and oversight of High Trees Monitoring & Evaluation and Communications, including of our partnerships. This allows us to ensure we continue to deliver services that have the impact we intend, and that this impact is evidenced and communicated to our key stakeholders.

You will bring an understanding of how work and projects should be designed, delivered, and evaluated to ensure they continue to respond to community needs and priorities. You will also instinctively understand the challenges faced by VCS organisations and communities alike, whether gained from a track record of working in the sector or a related field. High Trees work aims to create tangible benefits for all those we work with and you will be excited to ensure that High Trees continues to set the standard for community-led research and system change while creating tools, resources, and practices that benefit the wider sector.

At High Trees, our local community is at the heart of everything we do. You’ll bring significant professional experience working in research and/or community settings, demonstrating your ability to build trust, foster collaboration, and develop initiatives that reflect and respond to local priorities. This role is an opportunity to drive meaningful change, expand our impact, and strengthen the role of community research in shaping a fairer, more inclusive future.

Benefits of working at High Trees

• 35 days annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays and 3 Christmas days) rising by 1 day each year after 2 years’ service (capped at an additional 8 days)
• Enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption leave after 2 years’ service
• Save money off a new bike with the Cycle to Work scheme
• Up to 7% contribution to the staff pension scheme
• 24/7 Employee Support Line
• Clear pay structure with yearly increments (based on performance)
• Annual Staff away day
• Premium eye-care vouchers through Specsavers and season ticket loans

Learning and Work Institute is an independent policy, research and development organisation focused on lifelong learning, full employment and better work. We research what works, influence policy, and develop new ideas to improve practice. Social and economic inclusion are at the heart of all we do as we work towards a fair and prosperous society.

Our vision is for a prosperous and fair society in which learning and work provide opportunities for everyone to realise their potential and ambitions throughout life.

The Director of Policy and Research is a key senior leadership role at Learning and Work Institute. Reporting to the Chief Executive, the post-holder will be responsible for leading a team of around 30 experts in research, analysis, and policy development in these fields, generating more than £2.5 million in programme income and achieving a significant impact in policy and practice.

The appointed person will likely bring advanced knowledge of a range of methods and approaches that can be applied to research and development within public policy and will have a clear understanding of programme and project teaching and processes.

The successful candidate will also be committed to Learning and Works Institute’s charitable aims and objectives. You will have a track record of sizable income generation including developing proposals, developing funding relationships, and bid writing. You will also have a track record of delivering complex and high-profile programmes of research and/or development work, including managing resources and delivering to time and quality expectations within budget.

We welcome the appointed person’s proven track record in building strong relationships with national and local government, delivery organisations, partners and funders. Experience of leading a range of research and development approaches, such as reports, evaluations, pilot development and technical support, is also welcomed.

As a senior leader of the largest staff team the post-holder will need to possess excellent leadership and management skills, including an ability to inspire teams, develop and motivate staff, ensure high performance and deliver continuous improvement.

The opportunity is offered on permanent basis, though Learning and Work Institute is welcoming of flexible working patterns and arrangements, to be agreed upon appointment. We are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across all levels of the organisation and continuously strive to create an environment where all employees feel valued and supported.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact our retained advising consultants at Peridot Partners, Drew Richardson-Walsh or Olivia Robson, by visiting the link below:

Director of Policy and Research | Learning and Work Institute via Peridot