At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct independent research on macroeconomic trends and support policy-relevant projects.
- Company: Join Britain’s oldest and prestigious independent research institute in Westminster.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for impactful research.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth and networking opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on economic policies while advancing your academic career.
- Qualifications: Experience in economics, research writing, and collaborative teamwork required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 44600 £ per year.
The National Institute of Economic and Social Research is Britain’s oldest, and one of its most prestigious independent research institutes. We specialise in applied social and economic research, combining high academic standards with relevance to policy making. Our reputation for quality and independence, outstanding networks and unrivalled location at the heart of Westminster makes us the ideal base to build a national profile for academic or policy research that makes real impact.
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Macroeconomic Forecasting and Modelling team conducting independent research on questions related to ‘Macroeconomic trends in productivity and policies to raise productivity’, which is one of the leading research themes of the ESRC-funded ‘The Productivity Institute’ (TPI), and which is overseen by NIESR. Specifically, we are looking for a researcher whose research agenda complements that of TPI. The role also includes supporting other policy‑relevant research projects, including co‑authoring research.
The essential requirements we are looking for in the successful candidate are:
- Experience
- Experience in using various theories and methodologies in economics.
- Experience of drafting research papers and complex reports/policy proposals with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Experience with working collaboratively across teams, institutions, or organisations to achieve specific outcomes.
- A promising academic record with previous experience of writing papers for submission to academic journals for publication.
- Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
- High degree of self‑motivation and ability to work under pressure while maintaining accuracy.
- Effective project and time management skills, including timely recording and reporting and the ability to prioritise multiple conflicting tasks to meet strict deadlines.
- Ability to work independently.
- Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills, with the ability to adapt communication style to present complex information and ideas to a variety of audiences, including academics, the media, and the general public.
- Strong interest in real world economic and policy developments.
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 consider fully 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.
Applications should be sent to Kirsty Pearce‑Perkins via email: hr@niesr.ac.uk. In your application, please include the following:
- Where you saw the advert
- Details of two referees. NIESR will seek references prior to interview, so should you not wish us to contact any of your referees in advance, please make this clear.
If you would like any further information about the post, please contact Stephen Millard: s.millard@niesr.ac.uk. Closing date for applications is 24 July, interviews will be held during the week beginning 3 August.
Postdoctoral Research Associate employer: National Institute of Economic and Social Research
The National Institute of Economic and Social Research offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment for its employees, particularly in the role of Postdoctoral Research Associate. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence and policy relevance, staff benefit from flexible working arrangements, a collaborative culture, and opportunities for professional growth within one of the UK's most prestigious research institutes located in the heart of Westminster.
Contact Details:
National Institute of Economic and Social Research Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate
✨Leverage University Connections
If you're still at uni or have recently graduated, tap into your university's career services and research departments. They often have leads on temporary research roles, internships, or projects that haven’t been widely advertised yet!
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Join online forums and local meetups specific to your research area. Platforms like ResearchGate or specific Facebook groups can be goldmines for finding short-term research opportunities and connecting with fellow researchers who might know of openings.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a professional portfolio showcasing your research work or projects. This doesn’t have to be fancy; a simple website or a well-organised LinkedIn profile can make you stand out to potential employers like National Institute of Economic and Social Research.
✨Apply through Our Website!
Remember to check out the openings on our website. Applying directly for roles like the Postdoctoral Research Associate at National Institute of Economic and Social Research shows your enthusiasm and makes you more visible to hiring managers.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Research Skills:For a temporary role in scientific research, it’s key to highlight your hands-on experience and skills. Use your CV to detail any relevant projects or experiments you’ve worked on, showcasing your problem-solving abilities and techniques you've mastered. Don’t forget to mention any lab techniques or tools that you’re familiar with – this can really set you apart!
Highlight Your Adaptability:Since this is a temporary position, employers like National Institute of Economic and Social Research will want to see that you can hit the ground running. In your cover letter, emphasise your ability to quickly grasp new concepts and fit in with diverse teams. Give examples of past experiences where you had to adapt swiftly, as it shows you’re ready for any challenges the research might throw at you.
Academic Credentials Matter:Make sure your academic background shines through, especially any relevant degrees, certifications, or publications. If you’ve been involved in conducting research, definitely bring that up! It’s important to demonstrate your theoretical foundations and any formal recognitions you've received in the scientific field.
Include References from Previous Researchers:Having strong references can make all the difference in a temporary role in scientific research. If you can, include references from previous supervisors or professors who can vouch for your research capabilities and work ethic. This adds credibility to your application and gives National Institute of Economic and Social Research assurance of your skills and professional behaviour.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Institute of Economic and Social Research
✨Understand the Research Landscape
Dive deep into the specific area of scientific research that National Institute of Economic and Social Research focuses on. Whether it's biotech or environmental sciences, familiarise yourself with recent publications and breakthroughs. This shows that you're not just interested in the role, but you're genuinely engaged with the field.
✨Don't Skip the Technical Skills
As a temporary hire, you might be expected to hit the ground running. Be ready to discuss specific techniques or tools you’ve used, like statistical software or lab equipment. Practise explaining your experience in a clear, structured way so the interviewers can grasp your skills right away.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Temporary roles often require us to adapt quickly to new protocols and projects. Be prepared to share examples of how you've managed shifting priorities or learned new methodologies on the fly. This will help demonstrate that you're a quick learner who can contribute immediately.
✨Bring Your Best Work to the Table
Even if this is a temporary gig, showcase any relevant projects or research you've completed. If you have a portfolio, make it succinct yet impactful. Showcasing tangible results can leave a lasting impression on the interviewers at National Institute of Economic and Social Research.
