At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape impactful research programmes that influence policy and public debate.
- Company: NIESR, a leading independent research institute dedicated to economic and societal understanding.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to innovation and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by driving high-quality research with global impact.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in research strategy and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
NIESR is an independent research institute improving understanding of the economy and society through rigorous, policy-relevant research and public engagement. We work with policymakers, academics and partners in the UK and internationally to inform decision-making and public debate.
The role involves providing strategic leadership for NIESR’s research, ensuring delivery of a high-quality, ambitious and policy-relevant programme of work with strong external visibility and impact.
Key responsibilities- Research leadership and strategic direction: Lead an ambitious research programme aligned with NIESR’s strategic priorities as outlined in our Research Strategy. Build coherence and collaboration across teams, and promote innovation in themes, methods, partnerships and outputs.
- Ensuring quality, raising ambition and impact: Ensure consistently high standards of analytical quality, policy relevance and intellectual rigour. Increase the visibility and influence of outputs, supporting cross-cutting projects and constructively challenging teams to improve reach and impact.
- Leadership of people and performance: Lead, motivate and develop research staff, fostering high performance, collaboration and continuous improvement. Oversee recruitment, talent development, succession planning and performance management across the research function.
- Income generation and external partnerships: Contribute to funding proposals, research bids and commissioned work to sustain a diverse portfolio. Build and sustain relationships with funders, strategic partners, academic collaborators and policymakers in the UK and internationally. Work with colleagues across the Institute to develop partnerships, events and convening activity that enhance the scale and impact of NIESR’s research.
- External profile and influence: Act as a principal public-facing representative of NIESR’s research, strengthening its visibility, authority and influence. Build senior external relationships and pursue opportunities to expand the reach and practical impact of the Institute’s work (events, media and strategic partnerships).
- Institutional leadership: Contribute as a member of the senior leadership team to the overall direction and management of the Institute. Support organisational change and work with the Director and colleagues to translate strategic priorities into deliverable plans and outcomes.
How to apply: Please submit your CV and a two-page cover letter outlining how you meet the criteria, as outlined on the job description and person specification, for the role and your vision for leading NIESR’s research programme. Please include your availability and any relevant publications or outputs. You may wish to review NIESR’s new Research Strategy prior to application.
Closing date: 3 June 2026 (we may close the advert early if the right candidate is found). NIESR is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and will consider reasonable adjustments to support candidates through the recruitment process.
Research Director employer: National Institute of Economic and Social Research
NIESR is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where research excellence meets impactful public engagement. As a Research Director, you will lead a talented team in a collaborative culture that prioritises innovation and professional growth, while contributing to meaningful policy-relevant research that shapes the economy and society. Located in the heart of the UK, NIESR provides unique opportunities for networking with policymakers and academics, ensuring your work has a significant influence both nationally and internationally.
Contact Details:
National Institute of Economic and Social Research Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its recent projects. Show us you’re genuinely interested in NIESR’s work and how you can contribute to their ambitious research programme.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for leading NIESR’s research programme clearly and confidently. We want to hear how you plan to raise the ambition and profile of our work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show us your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on our radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Director role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with NIESR’s strategic priorities. We want to see how you can contribute to our ambitious research programme!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should not just repeat your CV but tell us your story. Share your vision for leading NIESR’s research programme and how you plan to raise our profile and impact. This is your chance to shine!
Showcase Your Publications:If you have relevant publications or outputs, don’t forget to include them! They can really demonstrate your expertise and how you can enhance the visibility of NIESR’s work. We love seeing tangible evidence of your impact.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Institute of Economic and Social Research
✨Know the Research Strategy Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly review NIESR’s Research Strategy. Understand its key priorities and how your vision aligns with them. This will not only show your commitment but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their ambitious research programme.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Research Director, you'll need to lead and motivate teams. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed research staff in the past. Highlight any strategies you've used to foster collaboration and high performance.
✨Demonstrate Your External Engagement Skills
NIESR values strong external visibility and partnerships. Come ready to discuss your experience in building relationships with funders, policymakers, and academic collaborators. Share specific examples of how you've increased the impact of research through these connections.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that demonstrate your interest in NIESR's work and your strategic thinking. Ask about their current projects, challenges they face, or how they envision the future of their research programme. This shows you're not just looking for a job, but genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
