At a Glance
- Tasks: Analyse data and support projects in biotechnology and biosecurity policy.
- Company: Join RAND Europe, a leading independent research organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days holiday, flexible working, and a competitive salary starting at £33,000.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on emerging technologies and public health policies.
- Qualifications: Background in biology or related life sciences with research experience.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 33000 £ 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. RAND Europe’s research is rigorously peer-reviewed, draws on extensive subject and methodological expertise, and is conducted in a professional, delivery-oriented environment. 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 Science and Emerging Technology (SET) group at RAND Europe conducts a wide-ranging portfolio of policy research for a diverse client base in the UK, Europe and beyond. Our work covers:
- Emerging technology policy: Analysis of the trends, applications and impacts of new and emerging technologies from artificial intelligence and biotechnology to quantum technology and virtual reality, using a variety of quantitative and qualitative methods.
- Research and innovation policy: Analysis of research and innovation systems including how they work and how they can be improved.
- Energy and environment policy: Energy and energy innovation, climate risk and policy, food systems and strategy, green jobs and skills, transport, and futures analysis of environment and sustainability issues.
We are looking for an Analyst to join the SET Research Group and support business development and project delivery for our portfolio of emerging technology policy with a particular focus on biotechnology and biosecurity. The role is based in the Cambridge office. We offer a flexible hybrid working pattern but would expect the successful candidate to be present in the office at least one day per week. Fluency in English is essential and proficiency in one or more other languages would be an asset.
The ideal candidate will combine policy research skills with a background in biology, microbiology, molecular biology or a related life sciences discipline. We are looking for an individual with a keen interest and understanding of biosecurity, biological surveillance, emerging biotechnologies, and the associated policy, governance and future risk implications. The role holder will have experience using mixed-methods research and engagement to explore these issues. They will be experienced at project coordination and management, supporting the delivery of projects in collaboration with a team of researchers.
The role holder will be proactive in their approach to delivering projects, writing proposals, and multitasking, and be committed to achieving impact through their work with other team members, in a collegiate environment.
Responsibilities
- Collect and analyse qualitative and/or quantitative data to support our biosecurity, biological surveillance and biotechnology policy portfolio.
- Help to project manage research tasks, ensuring they are delivered within time, and to budget, communicating with clients and collaborators, and working within small project teams.
- Contribute to writing project reports and other research outputs, such as conference/workshop presentations, articles in peer-reviewed journals (or equivalent) and blog posts.
- Support business development efforts by contributing to proposal- and grant-writing and other business-winning activities.
- Help ensure that RAND Europe’s research has a positive impact across biosecurity, public health, science policy and wider policy communities.
- Build networks and relationships with funders and collaborators across the biosecurity, surveillance, biotechnology and wider life sciences policy sectors.
- Work in a collegiate manner and contribute to the development and profile of the wider organisation.
Requirements
- Demonstrable experience in biosecurity, biological surveillance, biotechnology policy or related research, supported by a background in biology, microbiology, molecular biology or a closely related discipline.
- Proven expertise in managing and delivering work on relevant topics, with the ability to understand, assess and synthesise scientific publications and technical evidence.
- Experience of delivering research projects on a range of biosecurity, surveillance, science policy or biotechnology issues.
- Experience of working in the life sciences, biotechnology, surveillance or wider science and technology sector.
- Evidence of working as part of a team.
- Excellent analytical, writing and presentation skills and proven ability to communicate effectively with clients and to varied internal and external audiences.
- Demonstrable experience of writing, editing and disseminating research reports.
- Proven ability to distil complex information and engage with detail considering bigger picture issues and communicate research and analysis findings clearly, succinctly and in consideration of target audiences.
Personal qualities
- Analytical thinker with the ability to see issues strategically and at a practical level from a variety of perspectives.
- Hands-on, team player with a strong commitment to rigorous and high-quality research, customer service and the ability to manage multiple projects and tasks while working to tight deadlines.
- Enthusiastic about learning new skills, expanding your knowledge, and contributing to people development initiatives, such as training.
- Self-starter and proactive, and comfortable working with ambiguity as well as process.
- Open-minded, with the humility to recognise success in others and accept challenge from highly capable junior members of the team.
We welcome applications from a range of experience levels, from those slightly below to those exceeding our criteria.
Salary 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 Sunday 4 October 2026. Interviews will be taking place from 12 October 2026 onwards. If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.
Research Analyst - Emerging Biotechnology in Cambridge employer: Rand Europe
RAND Europe is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration among a diverse team of professionals from various backgrounds. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide ample opportunities for learning and development, alongside a comprehensive benefits package that includes generous holiday allowances and flexible working arrangements. Located in Cambridge, our office environment promotes innovation and impact, making it an ideal place for those passionate about contributing to meaningful research in the Defence, Security, and Justice sectors.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Analyst - Emerging Biotechnology in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Rand Europe. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Rand Europe!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Analyst - Emerging Biotechnology in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Rand Europe that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Rand Europe.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Rand Europe does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rand Europe
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Rand Europe. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Rand Europe's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Rand Europe. This shows your passion for the industry!
