Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage research projects and conduct high-quality analysis on drug policy and crime.
- Company: RAND Europe, a leading independent research organisation focused on public policy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by translating research into actionable policy recommendations.
- Qualifications: PhD or 3+ years in crime and justice research; strong methodological skills required.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with diverse teams and excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 46200 £ per year.
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.
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.
The Defence, Security and Justice Research Group undertakes research across a number of public policy areas, including drug policy, crime and justice. We employ robust methods and offer multi-disciplinary perspectives.
Research focus areas
- Policing
- Prisons
- Youth offending
- Drug use, supply and regulation
- Vulnerable offenders
- Serious organised crime and corruption
- Illicit markets
- Cybercrime and online hate
Our projects are diverse in nature, including evaluations of criminal justice policies and programmes (randomised controlled trials and quasi-experimental impact evaluations, process evaluations and economic evaluations), evidence syntheses, international comparisons, workshops, futures scenarios and toolkits. We encourage applications from those with training and expertise in one of several or these methods and approaches.
You will have the opportunity to work alongside renowned experts on projects with national and international reach and conduct cutting-edge research using a variety of methods. You will be able to drive positive change by translating research into clear, actionable policy recommendations.
The position offers huge potential to be involved in the design and implementation of all steps of the research process, from proposing research ideas, detailed research design, data collection, analysis and reporting, as well as research management, ethics and governance.
Responsibilities
- Managing research projects including budgeting, timetables, deliverables, and delegating tasks to team members
- Conducting high-quality research by:
- Drafting data collection tools (surveys, topic guides, etc.)
- Conducting in-depth literature reviews
- Collecting data through interviews, focus groups, or other methods
- Analysing quantitative and qualitative data using appropriate tools and software
- Preparing clear and concise presentations and research briefs for policymakers and other audiences
- Drafting sections of research reports with minimal supervision
- Maintaining regular communication with collaborators, clients, and funders to ensure project success
- Identifying opportunities to disseminate research findings through publications, conferences, media and presentations
- Contributing to business development activities by seeking new research opportunities and contributing to research proposals
- Supporting strategic corporate initiatives aligned with RAND Europe's mission
Requirements
- Thematic expertise - essential
- PhD in a social science, public policy or related discipline (or be close to finishing a PhD) or 3+ years of relevant experience in applied crime and justice research
- Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the following areas: drug policy, illicit markets, organised crime, criminal justice, policing, prisons
- Flexibility and interest to work on a broader range of themes within the drug policy, crime and justice portfolio
- Methodological Skills - Essential
- Experience with a variety of research methodologies (quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods)
- Communication Skills - Essential
- Excellent report writing skills, with the ability to tailor content for policy audiences
- Strong oral presentation skills
- Fluency in English - essential
- Proficiency in other languages - desired
- Good problem-solving skills
- Ability to multi-task and prioritise work
- Ability to work flexibly and to deadlines
- Management - desirable
- Experience managing research projects in professional services or public sector domains
- Experience in communicating and dealing with clients in the public and third sector
RAND Europe currently offer flexible working, with a collaborative office attendance two to three times a week.
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 12 April 2026. If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.
Research Analyst - Drug Policy, Crime and Justice in Cambridge employer: Rand Europe
Contact Detail:
Rand Europe Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Analyst - Drug Policy, Crime and Justice in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those who work at RAND Europe or similar organisations. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into RAND Europe's projects. Familiarise yourself with their research areas, especially drug policy and crime. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring examples of your previous research work to the interview. Whether it's a report or a presentation, having tangible proof of your abilities can really impress.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re keen on being part of our community at RAND Europe.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Analyst - Drug Policy, Crime and Justice in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience and skills that align with the Research Analyst role. We want to see how your background in drug policy, crime, and justice fits into our mission at RAND Europe.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our projects. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of our work.
Showcase Your Methodological Skills: Since we value diverse research methodologies, be sure to mention any experience you have with quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods. We want to know how you can bring unique insights to our research team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and keep track of your application. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rand Europe
✨Know Your Research
Before the interview, dive deep into RAND Europe's recent projects and publications, especially those related to drug policy and crime. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your expertise aligns with their work.
✨Showcase Your Methodological Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with various research methodologies. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully applied quantitative or qualitative methods, as this is crucial for the role of a Research Analyst.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle project management. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage budgets, timelines, or team dynamics, and be ready to share your approach.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since strong communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to present your past research findings in a concise manner, as if you were addressing policymakers, to demonstrate your ability to tailor content for different audiences.