At a Glance
- Tasks: Support policy, research, and project activities across five North East universities.
- Company: Join Universities for North East England, a collaborative partnership of top universities.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, flexible working hours, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Fixed term for 18 months with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in policy and research while making a real impact in higher education.
- Qualifications: Recent graduate with strong research, organisational, and communication skills.
This is a graduate opportunity open to individuals who have recently graduated from Durham University, Newcastle University, Northumbria University, the University of Sunderland or Teesside University. Applicants must meet these eligibility criteria to be considered for the role.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Head of Partnerships, you will provide support across policy, research, public affairs and project activity, working closely with colleagues across the five North East universities. This is an early-career opportunity for a recent graduate looking to develop experience in policy, research and partnership working. You will gain exposure to a range of activities, including:
- Researching policy developments
- Gathering and analysing information
- Supporting the preparation of reports and briefings
- Monitoring political and stakeholder developments
- Assisting with the coordination of projects
Working as part of a small team, you will work collaboratively with colleagues across the partnership and with external stakeholders. The role will provide an opportunity to develop your understanding of how policy, research and public affairs support strategic decision-making and collaborative working across the higher education sector. We are looking for someone with the academic foundation, interest and potential to develop into this area. You do not need to have extensive previous policy experience; we are looking for strong research, organisational and communication skills, alongside a willingness to learn, take initiative and contribute to the work of the team. Travel across the five universities may sometimes be required. The role is fixed term for 18 months. Interviews will take place week commencing 21st September 2026.
ABOUT YOU
To be successful in the role you will have:
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Strong planning and organising skills, adhering to timelines and budgets and able to manage competing priorities and pressures
- Keen interest in public policy and regional devolution
- Team player with strong interpersonal skills, ability to work with people at different levels across the organisation and external partners, agents, clients and customers
- Capabilities of IT systems and applications
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to draft and prepare high-level reports and briefings
- Potential/ability to operate in a changing environment and integrate new areas of work
- Self-motivated and able to work without close supervision
- Confident and able to use initiative
If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact dionne.lee@unee.ac.uk. To apply for this vacancy please click 'Apply Now'. Your application should include a covering letter and a CV.
Policy, Research and Projects Assistant for Universities for North East England (UNEE) employer: University of Northumbria
Universities for North East England (UNEE) offers a dynamic and supportive environment for recent graduates looking to kickstart their careers in policy and research. With a strong emphasis on collaboration across five prestigious universities, employees benefit from excellent professional development opportunities, a positive work-life balance, and a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Located in the vibrant region of North East England, UNEE champions the local economy and provides a unique platform for meaningful contributions to higher education and public policy.
