At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead AI testing and validation, translating behavioral science into actionable insights.
- Company: Escalent, a leading data analytics and advisory firm with a focus on human behaviour.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a chance to shape the future of AI in consulting.
- Why this job: Combine behavioural science and AI to drive impactful change in top brands.
- Qualifications: Advanced degree in behavioural science or equivalent experience; understanding of AI agents.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Who We Are
Escalent is an award-winning data analytics and advisory firm that helps clients understand human and market behaviours to navigate disruption. As catalysts of progress for more than 40 years, our strategies guide the world’s leading brands. We accelerate growth by creating a seamless flow between primary, secondary, syndicated, and internal business data, providing consulting and advisory services from insights through implementation. Based on a profound understanding of what drives human beings and markets, we identify actions that build brands, enhance customer experiences, inspire product innovation and boost business productivity. We listen, learn, question, discover, innovate, and deliver for each other and our clients to make the world work better for people.
The Role
This is a hybrid 6 month contract at the intersection of behavioural science and applied AI. You don't need to be an engineer or write production code, but you do need to genuinely understand how AI agents work – their capabilities, limitations, and design patterns – well enough to translate behavioural science frameworks into agent logic, prompts, evaluation criteria, and workflows that a technical team can build and that non-experts across the firm can trust and use.
What You'll Do
- Lead testing and validation of AI outputs, using research data to refine prompts, improve decision logic, and ensure high-quality results.
- Translate behavioural science frameworks (e.g., dual-process theory, heuristics and biases, nudge design, choice architecture) into structured logic that AI agents can apply consistently.
- Design and iterate on agent workflows, prompts, and decision rules that embed behavioural rigor into research design, survey/instrument development, qualitative analysis, and client deliverables.
- Partner with engineering/product teams to spec agent requirements, define evaluation criteria for 'did the agent apply this correctly,' and QA agent outputs against behavioural science standards.
- Build internal frameworks, playbooks, and training materials so consultants and researchers across the firm can use these agents appropriately (and know when not to trust them).
- Stay current on both behavioural science literature and the evolving capabilities of AI agents/LLMs, and identify new opportunities to scale behavioural expertise via AI.
- Act as an internal translator between behavioural science rigor and technical implementation – flagging where an agent's approach oversimplifies or misapplies a behavioural concept.
- Deliver behavioural science consulting to clients during development sprints when there isn't work for you to contribute to in the agent building workstream.
What You'll Bring
Required:
- Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in behavioural science, psychology, cognitive science, behavioural economics, or a related field – or equivalent applied experience.
- Strong grounding in behavioural science theory and its practical application to research and consulting.
- Demonstrated interest in and working understanding of how AI agents/LLMs function – you can speak fluently about prompting, context, tool use, evaluation, and limitations, even if you've never written code.
- Experience translating complex concepts into clear, structured frameworks that others (technical or not) can act on.
- Comfort working in ambiguity – this function and the tools you're building don't fully exist yet.
Preferred / Nice to Have
- Prior experience prompt-engineering, evaluating, or specifying requirements for AI/LLM-based tools (even informally).
- Experience in market research, consulting, or advisory settings.
- Familiarity with agent frameworks or eval methodologies (conceptual understanding, not necessarily hands-on build experience).
- A portfolio of applied behavioural science work (published research, case studies, or client deliverables).
Behavioural Science Insights Consultant (6 month FTC) employer: Escalent
At Escalent, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our focus on continuous learning and the opportunity to work at the forefront of behavioural science and AI integration. With a hybrid working model and a supportive environment, we empower our team members to thrive while making a meaningful impact for our clients and the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Behavioural Science Insights Consultant (6 month FTC)
✨Get Involved with Psychology Networks
Join local psychology groups or online forums to connect with professionals and get the inside scoop on temporary opportunities. Engaging in these communities can lead to recommendations that might not be advertised anywhere else!
✨Showcase Your Skills with Voluntary Work
Consider taking on voluntary roles in mental health charities or community programmes. This not only builds your experience but also helps you make valuable connections that could lead to temporary positions.
✨Keep Your Applications Customised and Fresh
Given the temporary nature of the roles, be super quick with your applications. Tailor your cover letter to highlight your adaptability and readiness for immediate start dates, and don't hesitate to apply through our website for the best chances!
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs or workshops specifically aimed at psychology students and graduates. These events are perfect for networking and discovering temporary roles directly with employers—plus you can often leave a lasting impression in-person!
We think you need these skills to ace Behavioural Science Insights Consultant (6 month FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Academic Background:In the psychology field, highlighting your academic achievements is crucial. Make sure your CV emphasises your relevant coursework, grades, and any special projects or research you've undertaken in psychology. We want to see how your studies have prepared you for the role at Escalent.
Tailor Your Personal Statement:Your personal statement is your chance to shine. Focus on your passion for psychology and how this temporary role fits into your career goals. Discuss any relevant experiences or skills that make you a great fit for Behavioural Science Insights Consultant (6 month FTC) at Escalent and tie it back to your motivation for applying.
Mention Any Relevant Experience:Whether it’s internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs, relevant experience can set you apart. Highlight any practical applications of psychology you've been involved with, such as counselling, research assistance, or community outreach. It's all about demonstrating your hands-on understanding of the field!
Stay Flexible and Open-Minded:Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your adaptability in your cover letter. Let Escalent know that you're ready to jump in and learn, and that you can handle quick changes in tasks. We want to see how you'll thrive in a dynamic environment while contributing to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Escalent
✨Showcase Your Empathy Skills
In psychology, your ability to connect with others is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you've demonstrated empathy and understanding in past roles or academic projects. Prepare a couple of real-life examples from your studies or any volunteer work that showcase your strength in this area.
✨Understand the Role’s Context
A temporary position in psychology may involve specific populations or clinical settings. Familiarise yourself with any special considerations or methodologies that apply to the context of the job at Escalent. This could include particular therapeutic approaches or assessment tools - knowing these can set you apart.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that require you to think on your feet and apply psychological principles in real-world scenarios. Practise how you would approach a hypothetical situation, perhaps dealing with a distressed client or assessing their needs. This will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities effectively.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Temporary roles often require us to adapt quickly to new environments and challenges. Be sure to emphasise your ability to step into various roles or tasks as needed. Share examples that show how you've thrived in changing situations or learned new skills rapidly.
