Are you the right applicant for this opportunity Find out by reading through the role overview below.
About SQW
SQW is a leading independent consultancy providing research, analysis and advice in economic and social development. We work with public sector clients to design, deliver and evaluate policies that shape a better society — from supporting business growth and innovation to tackling inequalities in health, employment and skills.
The Opportunity
We are looking for bright, motivated graduates to join our Research Consultant Development Programme. We have vacancies in our Manchester and Edinburgh offices (applications to our London office accepted by exception).
This structured two-year programme provides:
- Structure and support to boost your professional development
- Early exposure to client projects across all areas of our work
- Opportunities to collaborate with peers and senior colleagues across our UK offices
You'll play a meaningful role from day one, contributing to work that influences national and local policy.
What You'll Do
As a Research Consultant, you'll be involved in a wide range of research and consultancy activities, including:
- Analysing quantitative data, such as socio-economic datasets and surveys
- Conducting literature and policy reviews
- Undertaking qualitative analysis including interviews and document reviews
- Supporting bespoke primary research involving interviews, workshops and focus groups with service users, businesses and public bodies
- Contributing to reports and presentations
- Engaging with colleagues, stakeholders and clients in meetings and presentations
Areas of Work
You'll gain experience across multiple policy areas. xgikmsk Examples of our work in these areas includes: including:
- Innovation and business growth: evaluations of business support programmes led by the British Business Bank and Be The Business; research on what works in enhancing the diversity of venture capital investment; a socio-economic impact assessment of the Pirbright Institute; a progress evaluation of the Government Office for Technology Transfer; and an impact evaluation of UKRI's Innovation Accelerator Programme.
- Spatial and local economic development: evaluations of City, Devolution and Growth Deal investment funds in thirteen localities across the UK; the development of new economic strategies in East Sussex, Dudley, Denbighshire and Coventry and Warwickshire; a 'Jet Zero' cluster study in Surrey and Hampshire; a Delivery Plan for Ayrshire's Regional Economic Strategy, a study of coastal communities in Suffolk; the development of new housing development appraisal guidance; plus various feasibility studies, market assessments and delivery strategies for innovation districts and centres across the UK.
- Education, skills and e Please click on the apply button to read the full job description
Research Consultant in Edinburgh employer: SQW Group
SQW is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation among its consultants. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development through engaging projects that make a real impact on society. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility, making our Edinburgh, London, and Manchester locations not just places of work, but vibrant communities where meaningful contributions are valued.
