At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and prototype innovative assessments using AI and psychometrics.
- Company: Join SHL, a leader in people science and technology.
- Benefits: Comprehensive benefits, flexible working, and career development support.
- Other info: Dynamic, inclusive culture with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on assessment innovation and workplace transformation.
- Qualifications: Master’s or PhD in relevant fields with 5+ years of experience.
The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.
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Full details of the job:
- Requisition No: VN4552
- Time Type: Full Time
- Location: Thames Ditton Office
- Country: United Kingdom
Say yes to a better tomorrow! SHL, People Science. People Answers. Are you ready to take your career and expertise in people science to the next level? SHL is hiring for a Senior Scientist to join their team in the Americas!
The Senior Scientist will be responsible for designing and prototyping next-generation assessments that combine rigorous psychometric measurement with modern, AI-enabled candidate experiences. Working cross-functionally with Product, Legal, and client-facing teams, this individual will transform assessment concepts into functional proofs of concept and serve as a subject-matter expert in psychometrics and AI/ML-based scoring. The position requires strong professional leadership, deep expertise in test development and validation standards, and a commitment to scientific rigor, high-quality documentation, and ethical best practices. The successful candidate will advance assessment innovation within practical commercial constraints while developing recognized expertise both within SHL and across the broader field.
An excellent benefits package is offered in a culture where career development, with ongoing manager guidance, collaboration, flexibility, diversity and inclusivity are all intrinsic to our culture. There is a huge investment in SHL currently so there’s no better time to become a part of something transformational. Thames Ditton Office is preferred/ Open to Remote. Hybrid working is available. All applicants must have the right to work.
What you will be doing:
- Designing novel assessments and measurement concepts, including simulations, situational judgment tests, adaptive and game-based formats, and conversational/LLM-driven task types.
- Building working prototypes, taking measurement concepts to functional proofs-of-concept using modern AI tooling and agentic workflows.
- Owning psychometric quality across reliability, validity, and scoring, combining established psychometric theory with AI/ML scoring approaches to deliver accurate, robust, and explainable results.
- Building fairness and legal defensibility into assessments from the design stage, maintaining current knowledge of relevant regulation (EEOC guidelines, SIOP best practices, EU AI Act, NYC Local Law 144, and emerging requirements) and applying it through development and audit processes.
- Translating measurement constructs and scoring models into assessment experiences that candidates find engaging and credible, balancing integrity and validity controls against candidate experience.
- Running validation studies (criterion-related, content, and construct) and communicating findings to technical and non-technical audiences.
- Partnering across Product, Engineering, Legal, and client-facing teams to advance prototypes toward production-ready solutions.
- Monitoring advances in AI/ML and psychometrics, distinguishing genuine measurement value from novelty, and bringing relevant developments into practice responsibly.
What we are looking for from you:
Essential:
- Master’s or PhD in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Psychometrics, Quantitative Psychology, Data Science or a closely related field.
- 5+ years of post-graduate experience designing, developing, or validating assessments used in organizational decision-making.
- Demonstrated experience leading innovation in assessment design or applied research, evidenced through published work, technical reports, conference presence, or leading-edge project work.
- Strong applied psychometrics, including CTT and/or IRT, reliability and validity evidence, factor analysis, and statistical modeling.
- Hands-on technical proficiency in Python and/or R, and demonstrated fluency with current AI tools, including LLM APIs, prompt design, and modern prototyping workflows.
- Working knowledge of the legal and professional landscape governing selection, including the Uniform Guidelines, SIOP Principles, the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing, and the evolving regulatory landscape for AI in hiring.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate measurement concepts clearly to mixed technical and non-technical audiences.
Desirable:
- PhD in a relevant discipline.
- Strong applied psychometrics, including CTT and/or IRT, reliability and validity evidence, factor analysis, and statistical modeling.
- Front-end or interactive prototyping experience.
- A record of published or applied research in assessment, measurement, or selection.
Closing Date: October 5th, 2026 — Posting may close sooner depending on applicant volume.
About Us: We unlock the possibilities of businesses through the power of people, science and technology. We started this industry of people insight more than 40 years ago and continue to lead the market with powerhouse product launches, ground-breaking science and business transformation. When you inspire and transform people’s lives, you will experience the greatest business outcomes possible. SHL’s products insights, experiences, and services can help achieve growth at scale.
What SHL can offer you:
- Employee benefits package that takes care of you and your family.
- Support, coaching, and on-the-job development to achieve career success.
- A fun and flexible workplace where you’ll be inspired to do your best work.
- The ability to transform workplaces around the world for others.
SHL is an equal opportunity employer. We support and encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates. We can, and do make adjustments to make sure our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible.
Senior Research Scientist employer: SHL Group
At SHL, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions diversity, inclusivity, and career development. Located in Thames Ditton, our team enjoys the benefits of hybrid working, uncapped commission, and a supportive environment where ongoing coaching and collaboration are at the forefront. Join us to be part of a transformative journey in the HR tech space, where your contributions can make a real impact on businesses worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Scientist
✨Get Involved in Local Psychological Communities
Join local psychology associations or groups where professionals gather. Whether it’s workshops, conferences, or social events, connecting with others in the field can lead to job opportunities and insider info on unadvertised openings.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re a recent graduate, don’t forget to tap into your university’s career services. They often have exclusive partnerships with organisations looking for fresh talents, plus access to internships that could lead to full-time roles.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a blog or a LinkedIn page where you share insights about psychology theories or current trends. This not only showcases your knowledge but can help you connect with like-minded professionals and potential employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you find a role like Senior Research Scientist at SHL Group, make your application stand out by applying directly through our website. This gives you a better chance to be seen by hiring managers. Plus, tailor your application to highlight your passion for psychology and relevant experiences!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV with Relevant Experience:In psychology, it’s crucial to highlight your relevant experience, such as internships, research projects, or any volunteer work in mental health settings. Make sure to include specific roles and responsibilities, demonstrating how you've applied theoretical knowledge in real-world situations—this is what gets us excited!
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:Given the nature of psychology, we want to see your academic journey laid out clearly. Include your degree(s), grades, and any specialised courses or certifications that set you apart. If you've got published papers or presentations at conferences, be sure to mention them—it shows your commitment to the field!
Personal Statement: Make It Count:Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Share insights about why you’re passionate about psychology and how this role at SHL Group connects with your career goals. Be honest about your motivations and what you hope to learn—this is key for a full-time position and helps us gauge your fit in our team!
Focus on Soft Skills in Your Application:Psychology is as much about people as it is about theories. Highlight your soft skills such as communication, empathy, and teamwork in your application. These traits are essential in our field and will help us see how you connect with others, so don't hold back in showcasing them!
How to prepare for a job interview at SHL Group
✨Brush Up on Key Psychological Theories
Before stepping into the interview with SHL Group, revisit key psychological theories that are relevant to the role, like cognitive behavioural therapy or humanistic psychology. Expect to discuss these during your interview, as they want to see how you apply theory to practice.
✨Bring Real-Life Case Studies
Prepare a couple of case studies or anecdotes that demonstrate your practical experience in psychology. Whether it’s handling a difficult client or designing a psychological assessment, these stories will highlight your skills and help you stand out in your full-time interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Ethical Guidelines
Get comfy with the ethical guidelines set by the British Psychological Society. Be ready to chat about how you ensure ethical practice in your work, as this is crucial in the psychology field, and SHL Group will be keen to know you’ve got integrity.
✨Showcase Your Continuous Learning
Since you're going for a full-time gig, it’s essential to demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development. Bring up any workshops, courses, or readings you’ve engaged in recently. This shows SHL Group that you’re not just there for a job, but genuinely passionate about the field.
