Health Policy Researcher - Health and Care in Cambridge

RAND Europe is an independent, not-for-profit research organisation whose mission is to help improve policy and decision-making through rigorous and independent research and analysis. We benefit the public interest through the impact and wide dissemination of over 200 projects per year. Our work at its most impactful changes policy, practice and process to the benefit of the public good. That is also our organisational mission. RAND Europe has approximately 200 staff across offices in Cambridge, Brussels, and the Hague. Our staff represents 22 nationalities, speaks over 20 languages and covers 31 academic disciplines. Our multi- and inter-disciplinary approaches to research generate unique perspectives and insights for our wide-ranging government, foundation and other NGO clients. Our methods are typically rooted in the social sciences – members of the Health and Care research group have backgrounds in health services research; health economics; epidemiology; public health; psychology; health innovation; sociology and other social science and health related disciplines.

We wish to recruit a Health Policy Researcher (known internally as 'Analyst') to join our innovative, dedicated Health and Care Research group, to work on hugely exciting projects changing the landscape of Health and Care policy. The role is part of our expanding research group working on public health, health systems and services, and technology and innovation in health. Our work is applied, varied, and policy focused, with clients including the UK Government, the European Commission and European agencies such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and charities such as the Wellcome Trust.

We are looking for a candidate with relevant research skills and interest in this varied and applied research for policy. This post would suit those who have recently completed their PhD, and/or have relevant research experience in the academic, public or private sector combined with a Masters Degree. We are open to applications from people with quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods backgrounds with a strong interest in policy and decision-making in health policy. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, and particularly encourage people from groups that are underserved by, or under-represented in, research on health and care. Our work is fast-paced and collegial, and would suit people keen to work across a range of projects as part of high-performing teams.

The role will be based at our Cambridge (UK) office; RAND Europe operates on a hybrid working model with the opportunity to work from home, but attendance in the office is expected at least one day a week and/or ad-hoc requirements such as inductions, training or client meetings.

Key responsibilities

• Contributing to high-quality research by drafting data collection tools, conducting literature reviews, conducting interviews or focus groups, analysing quantitative and qualitative data, preparing presentations and research briefs, collaborating with others as part of proposal and project teams.
• Drafting sections of reports (with support).
• Managing small to medium sized projects and proposals (with support), including monitoring budget, timetable and deliverables, coordinating work by others and providing feedback.
• Ensuring timely and professional contact with collaborators, clients and funders.
• Contributing to impact by identifying opportunities for communication of research findings.
• Analysing calls for tender to identify proposal requirements.
• Supporting wider organisational and business development activities.

Requirements

• Doctorate in a relevant field or MSc plus relevant work experience.
• Good knowledge and experience of qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies and their application to research on health and care.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Good skills with Excel, PowerPoint and Word; other relevant research software or coding skills are an advantage; Fluency in English is essential; additional EU languages are an advantage.
• Organised and with good time management skills.
• Team player.

Salary

Starting from £33,000 per annum.

Benefits

• Pension - 8% Employer contribution.
• 33 days holiday allowance, including the Bank Holidays.
• Annual salary review.
• BUPA medical insurance.
• Generous company sick pay.
• Enhanced family friendly policies.
• Group income protection scheme.
• Group life assurance.
• Compassionate leave.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Employee wellbeing training and support.
• Fresh fruit every day.
• Free on-site parking.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Access to company bikes.
• Service awards.

Application

If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising of a CV and covering letter. The closing date for applications is now Sunday 16 August 2026. Interviews will be taking place during week commencing 1 September 2026. If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.