Graduate Researcher - Data Policy and Research Group

Job description

Applications for this role are set to close on 7 February but may be extended at the discretion of the hiring manager.

On the Graduate Researcher - Data Policy and Research Group program, you'll get the opportunity to spend time in three unique team rotations between September 2025 – September 2027, where you'll learn about every aspect of our data policy and research work while working on real-life challenges and projects.

You'll work side-by-side with our teams, technical experts and leaders to develop the skills and experience that will put you on the path to become a future leader in data policy and research for the higher education sector.

The three business areas you can get to work in are:

Policy Analysis

• Explore policy topics and practitioner challenges within tertiary education
• Use policy analysis and knowledge to identify areas for investigation
• Develop an understanding of the data sources that could help address identified priorities
• Communicate findings and policy insights to internal stakeholders
• Identify gaps in our understanding of tertiary education issues.

Experimental Development

• Identify or develop datasets and variables to address gaps in understanding
• Pursue advanced work in priority areas, potentially continuing from the first rotation
• Develop technical skills in SQL, Stata, Python, or R through work-based learning
• Learn and apply engineering standards for producing and documenting code

Research

• Undertake detailed analysis with secondary data using statistical software
• Write insights and briefings on research findings that provide a clear narrative

Why work at Jisc

Location: Hybrid - A blend of working from home and your nominated hub office, we have hubs in London, Bristol, Manchester and Oxford. Specific patterns for working in the office are not mandated, and the frequency of time worked in the office is agreed with your manager. Meeting in person is something we value so you may need to travel on occasion to any of our hub offices. Our benefits are great too. We offer:

• Mentorship and Support: One-on-one guidance from experienced professionals
• Career Growth: Opportunities for advancement
• Inclusive Culture: Diverse and welcoming workplace
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working options
• Generous Leave: 31 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Life Stage Support: Career breaks, study leave, volunteering, and excellent family leave policies
• Health and Wellbeing: Access to wellbeing support and health benefits
• Financial Support: Generous pension, discounts, cycle scheme, and season ticket loans
• Professional Development: Training programs and mentoring opportunities
• Community: Join networks like Youth Network, Neurodiversity, Women in Tech, and more

What we are looking for

We know you may not tick every box, and that's okay - we're more interested in your potential. If you have most of what we're looking for, we encourage you to apply. We are looking for:

• A social science degree with some quantitative component (e.g., Economics, Geography, Politics, Sociology, Social policy, Education)
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong attention to detail
• Effective time management and organisational skills
• Proactive approach to learning and development
• A keen interest in higher/tertiary education, and a desire to make a difference

We'll also be excited to see if you have any skills in data visualization and storytelling, or if you've undertaken previous project work relevant to the role. And while not required, graduates from courses recognized by the Nuffield Q-Step programme would be a nice addition to the team.

Even without extensive work experience, we're eager to see how your relevant projects, internships or coursework showcase your potential.

DBS required or enhanced background screening: This position requires the successful candidate to undergo enhanced background screening checks, which include but is not limited to

Basic / Enhanced UK criminal record check required if working with relevant microdata

Accepted degree subjects

Any

Additional job details

How to apply

Click Apply to start your application now. This job will be available on Prospects until 7 February 2025

Don't forget to mention Prospects to employers when you contact them.

Closing date:  7 February 2025