Lead Researcher in Manchester

At AQA, we’re committed to advancing education and we’re committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK, we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and it’s our people who make this happen.

AQA is looking for a Lead Researcher to develop and deliver research and evaluation projects across the assessment field, including vocational reform and the development of new assessment products. You’ll bring assessment research expertise and turn evidence into insight that supports decisions across AQA and the wider sector. This is a permanent, research-focused role with visible impact at a time of change in education and assessment. You’ll join the Research and Evaluation team within Assessment Research and Innovation, supporting valid, inclusive and innovative assessments across paper-based and digital settings.

In this role, you’ll be responsible for:

• Leading research and evaluation projects in a matrix structure, balancing project leadership with technical input.
• Applying methodological expertise to design, deliver and interpret qualitative or quantitative research.
• Providing assessment expertise for vocational and new assessment product workstreams.
• Line managing and supporting a small number of more junior researchers, including coaching and development support.
• Building relationships with stakeholders across AQA, including product management, vocational, sales, marketing, digital and edtech teams.
• Communicating research clearly through reports, presentations and other outputs for internal and external audiences.
• Developing an expert voice in assessment and representing AQA where appropriate.

You’ll thrive in this role if you have:

• Demonstrable assessment research expertise and a sound understanding of the challenges and opportunities of the sector.
• A master’s degree in psychology, education, social sciences or a related area, with doctoral study or equivalent experience being beneficial.
• Secure knowledge of research methodologies and confidence designing and delivering qualitative and quantitative projects.
• Strong stakeholder management skills.
• Experience using tools such as R, Python or NVivo, depending on your research background.
• Experience managing research projects or people through line management, matrix management or project leadership.
• Experience presenting research findings to a wide range of audiences.
• Wider education research experience may also be relevant where it links closely to assessment.

What’s in it for you?

• The chance to make a meaningful impact on education while developing your profile as an expert voice in assessment research.
• A permanent, research-only role with the opportunity to have real impact in the field.
• Long-term impact across vocational and new assessment product workstreams expected to develop over the next three to five years.
• A 35-hour working week with flexible, hybrid working.
• 25 days’ annual leave rising to 30, plus Christmas closure days.
• A benefits package including up to 11.5 percent pension contribution, BUPA healthcare support, wellbeing programmes and volunteering opportunities.
• Training, development and mentoring in a team with broad expertise across social and natural sciences.
• An inclusive, values-led culture with employee networks including LGBTQ+, neurodiversity, empowering women, wellbeing, ethnic diversity and Interfaith.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement: At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone - regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background - is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

What’s Next? Applications are expected to close on Monday 31 August 2026. Shortlisting and screening are expected during the week commencing Monday 7 September 2026. The process will include an initial Teams conversation followed by a face-to-face interview. AQA may close the advert earlier if a high volume of suitable applications is received. Successful candidates will be unable to maintain an Associate role with AQA or any other exam board. Please note that an Enhanced DBS will be required for the successful candidate.