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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support research teams with literature reviews, data analysis, and report writing.
- Company: Join RAND Europe, a leading independent research organisation making a real impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days holiday, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative projects shaping policy in science and technology.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree or equivalent experience in relevant fields required.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with excellent personal development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 28000 £ 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 180 staff across offices in Cambridge, Brussels, and the Netherlands. 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. RAND Europe's research is rigorously peer‑reviewed, draws on extensive subject and methodological expertise, and is conducted in a professional, delivery‑oriented environment.
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:
- Research and innovation policy: Analysis of research and innovation systems including how they work and how they can be improved. This includes evaluations of portfolios of R&I, research strategy development, landscape reviews, and research culture (including topics like researcher mobility, researcher wellbeing and open science).
- 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. This includes examining the societal and policy implications of technologies across sectors and a broad set of areas such as technology oversight; trust and ethics; public engagement; and work and skills.
- 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 work with and for public, private and third sector funders and collaborate frequently with universities and other research organisations. We are seeking exceptional Research Assistants to join our Cambridge office. Multiple vacancies are available, focusing on one of three workstreams: Research & Innovation Policy, Emerging Technology Policy, or Energy & Environment Policy. 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. Science and Emerging Technology (SET) team members have backgrounds in science, innovation and technology policy, and other natural and social science disciplines. We are looking for applicants with a postgraduate degree (Masters or PhD) or equivalent experience in one of these areas.
RAND Europe has an extensive skills and development programme that will build your capabilities and equip you for the range of challenging and exciting tasks that we will ask you to work on. You will also have dedicated support for your personal development.
Responsibilities
- Support project teams in research by conducting literature reviews, conducting, supporting and transcribing interviews, undertaking analysis of quantitative and qualitative data, preparing presentations and research briefs, coordinating meetings and events, including taking minutes.
- Analyse calls for tender to identify proposal requirements, with supervision.
- Support the collation of administrative documents for proposals.
- Draft sections of reports under supervision.
- Proofread and check documents.
- Make corporate contributions through supporting RAND processes such as quality assurance and research ethics.
- Provide occasional corporate support with administrative tasks.
- Communicate with clients with supervision.
Requirements
- Postgraduate degree (Masters or PhD) or equivalent experience in one of these areas.
- Basic knowledge of qualitative and quantitative methodologies and their application.
- Basic report writing skills.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Intermediate Excel, Powerpoint and Word.
Please note this is a two-year fixed term position. We are not able to offer sponsorship for this role, please ensure you have the ongoing right to work in the UK. Please also note office attendance is required minimum once a week for team meetings.
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
How To Apply
We are recruiting multiple Research Assistants within our Science and Emerging Technology team, with opportunities across all three workstreams; Research & Innovation Policy, Emerging Technology Policy, or Energy & Environment Policy. Please indicate in your cover letter which area(s) you are most interested working in. If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising of a CV and covering letter. The deadline for applications is 11 January 2026. If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.
Research Assistant - Science and Emerging Technology in Cambridge employer: Rand Europe
Contact Detail:
Rand Europe Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant - Science and Emerging Technology in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at RAND Europe on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role in the Science and Emerging Technology team.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into RAND Europe's recent projects. Familiarise yourself with their research areas, especially in Research & Innovation Policy, Emerging Technology Policy, and Energy & Environment Policy. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since excellent communication is key for this role, consider doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms. Get comfortable discussing your research experience and how it relates to the job.
✨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 serious about joining the RAND Europe team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant - Science and Emerging Technology in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the specific role you're applying for. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the Research Assistant position, especially in areas like research methodologies and report writing.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for science and emerging technology, and clearly state which workstream you’re interested in. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in qualitative and quantitative methodologies. If you have experience with tools like Excel, PowerPoint, or Word, make sure to highlight that too. We love seeing candidates who are well-rounded!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at RAND Europe!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rand Europe
✨Know Your Research
Before the interview, dive deep into RAND Europe's projects and their impact on policy and decision-making. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications, especially in the Science and Emerging Technology areas. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your background aligns with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Prepare specific examples of how you've conducted literature reviews or analysed data in previous roles. Highlighting your report writing skills and any relevant software proficiency will demonstrate your readiness for the tasks outlined in the job description.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, and the specific workstreams you're interested in. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their research efforts and understanding their organisational culture.
✨Practice Communication
Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or mentors, focusing on both your verbal and written communication skills. This will help you feel more confident during the actual interview.
