Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support research teams with literature reviews, interviews, and presentations in defence and security.
- Company: RAND Europe, a leading independent research organisation focused on public policy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, flexible working, and health insurance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on policy and decision-making in defence and security.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree, strong writing skills, and ability to work in a team.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for learning and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 22400 - 33600 £ 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. 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.
We are looking for a dedicated Research Assistant to join our Defence, Security and Justice research group who can support our research and analysis activities across all key areas. The Defence, Security and Justice Research Group conducts a wide-ranging portfolio of research for a diverse client base in the UK, Europe and beyond. Our clients include UK government departments (e.g. Ministry of Defence, Home Office, Office for Veterans Affairs), EU institutions (e.g. European Commission, European Parliament), national and international defence and security organisations (e.g. national defence departments, NATO), and various third sector and humanitarian organisations. Our work covers a broad range of public policy issues across:
- Defence: defence strategy, policy, capability, and acquisition; defence economics; defence workforce and Armed Forces community
- Security: terrorism; counter-violent extremism; human security; border security; energy security; resilience and cyber
- Criminal Justice: rehabilitation and preventing crime; organised crime; law enforcement cooperation; drugs and illicit markets
Responsibilities
- Supports project teams in research, through supporting literature reviews, co-conducting and transcribing interviews, minute taking, preparing presentations and workshops, coordinating meetings and events
- Analyses calls for tender to identify proposal requirements
- Drafts sections of research proposals
- Supports the collation of administrative documents for proposals
- Drafts sections of reports
- Proofreads and checks documents
- Makes corporate contributions through supporting RAND processes such as quality assurance and research ethics
- Communicates with clients
Requirements
- Ability to multi-task efficiently and effective time management skills for operating in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to quickly grasp a wide range of unfamiliar policy issues and research methods
- Basic knowledge of research methodologies and their application
- Strong writing skills (i.e. clear, concise, well-referenced and persuasive)
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Strong ability to work in a team
- Intermediate Word
- Intermediate Excel (strong Excel skills for the more quantitative role)
- Intermediate PowerPoint
- A post graduate degree or equivalent qualification
Desirable
- Some relevant experience in a similar role
- Knowledge and interest in the cyber domain
- Knowledge of UK and European defence and security policy issues
- Quantitative research method skills
- Eligibility for UK and NATO Security Clearance
Salary £28,000 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 6 April 2026. If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.
Research Assistant - Defence, Security 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 Assistant - Defence, Security and Justice in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at RAND Europe on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the company culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into their projects. Familiarise yourself with their research areas, especially in Defence, Security, and Justice. This shows us that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since the role requires excellent verbal and written abilities, try explaining complex topics simply to friends or family. This will help us articulate our thoughts clearly during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant - Defence, Security and Justice in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Assistant role. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the job description, especially in research methodologies and communication.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about defence, security, and justice research. Show us how your background aligns with our mission at RAND Europe.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We want to see your ability to communicate effectively, just like you would in the role!
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 ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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 Defence, Security, and Justice. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your skills can contribute to their ongoing work.
✨Master the Basics of Research Methodologies
Brush up on your knowledge of research methodologies, as this role requires a basic understanding of them. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these methods in past experiences or how you would approach unfamiliar policy issues.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Consider preparing examples of how you've effectively communicated complex ideas in writing or verbally, especially in team settings.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Scenarios
RAND Europe values collaboration, so think of specific instances where you've successfully worked in a team. Be ready to share how you contributed to group projects, managed conflicts, or supported colleagues in achieving common goals.