Research Consultant

Introducing Rocket Science:

We are a highly regarded specialist consultancy with offices in Edinburgh, Newcastle and London. We focus on working with clients to improve the performance of services for the public, and we work as independent advisers, researchers, evaluators, facilitators, trainers and mediators.  We specialise in the fields of employability, health and social care, housing and homelessness, learning and skills, third sector development, and local economic development.  We recognise the importance of considering intersectionality in all we do, and in gender-informed approaches, and we are currently growing our portfolio of work in these areas.

Our services go beyond consultancy to include organisational and partnership development, as well as acting as evaluation partners and managing agents of a number of significant grant programmes. We have a particular commitment to work which helps disadvantaged individuals, families and communities enhance the quality of their lives. 

The Role:

We are looking for multiple people with 2 or more years’ experience in a relevant field to join our Newcastle, Edinburgh and London teams.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

To undertake research/policy work, including: content and data analysis; analysing and interpreting policy, legislation, statistics and other information; identifying good and bad practice; and forecasting trends and future developments

To help with the development of ideas, products and services on behalf of Rocket Science and/or its clients and in the context, where appropriate, of different public-policy initiatives

To contribute to the production of proposals, reports and briefings in appropriate forms which may include newsletters, articles, letters and mailings

To undertake other duties and tasks appropriate to the post as may be required from time to time.

Skills and Experience:

The person we are looking for is likely to have completed a relevant degree, have 2 or more years’ experience in a relevant field, will be expected to have:

• An understanding of the public policy context in the UK including experience working in a relevant field
• Insights into employability and skills, education, health, social care, or housing related research preferably with experience in one or more fields
• Evidence of strong written communication: ability to clearly articulate a story by bringing together evidence from a range of sources (primary and secondary sources) about complex policy issues
• Evidence of strong data analysis skills including advanced Excel and graphical presentation of patterns and trends
• Evidence of effective oral communication including some of the following:  focus group facilitation, presentation, contribution to meetings (internal and external), and interviewing stakeholders and service participants (telephone and face-to-face)
• Ability to work independently and initiate, plan and prioritise workloads and meet deadlines
• Ability to think creatively and offer ideas in designing our approach to tasks
• Ability to make positive contributions to internal and external teams
• Understanding of how to use IT effectively and appreciate the potential of IT-based solutions and tools to enhance our services to clients.

To apply for this role, please submit a CV with covering letter explaining how your experience makes you suitable for the role, and the contribution you could make to Rocket Science. These should be submitted via the link.

Please also include the names of two referees, including, if applicable, your most recent or last employer. Please note that referees will not be approached without your prior knowledge, and only following a successful application and interview.

Please also include the names of two referees, including, if applicable, your most recent or last employer. Please note that referees will not be approached without your prior knowledge, and only following a successful application and interview.

Closing date for applications:          Friday 16^th July 2021 at midday.

We plan to hold virtual interviews for shortlisted candidates during the week of 19th and 26^th of July 2021 (but are flexible in terms of the availability of shortlisted applicants).