NPI, an independent think tank, is recruiting a research analyst. This is an opportunity for someone who wants to develop their experience of using data analysis to help advance public understanding of society and the economy. Strong analytic skills, numeracy, and a capacity to communicate are the core requirements. A degree in economics would be a strong advantage.

The work
As part of a small team, you can expect to work on several of the dozen or so projects we conduct each year. Our projects require a mix of data analysis, policy appraisal and qualitative research. They cover a wide range of subjects, often with a strong local or regional focus. Current and recent projects include: measuring economic justice in the West Midlands; making sense of the changes in spending on local government services for vulnerable groups; developing policy options for addressing in-work poverty in North Wales; and examining arguments for greater devolution within Northern Ireland.

The work requires three sets of skills. The first is the capacity to analyse large datasets and other sources of data. The second is the ability to review research and policy literature. The third is the ability to communicate. This includes both writing clearly for a variety of audiences, as well as questioning and listening, qualitative research now being an established part of our work.

The candidate
NPI is an equal opportunities employer and all our jobs are open to anyone, regardless of race, national origin, sex, disability, sexuality, marital status, age or religious belief. You will:
• Have a degree in a numerate discipline. A grasp of basic statistics is important.
• Be a confident user of MS Excel, and preferably SPSS (or equivalent).
• Relevant professional experience. Practical knowledge of one of our areas of interest would be an advantage.
• Share our interest in, and commitment to, this work – and be able to demonstrate that.

Terms and conditions
It is expected that the job will be full-time (37½ hours per week), based in our London office. We will consider candidates seeking flexible working, including working from home part of the week or working four days a week. Annual leave for a full-time position is 25 days plus public holidays. The contract would be for a fixed term of one year, which we would hope to be able to extend in due course.