Reference: 98621
Date Added: 18 February 2026
Closing Date: 5 March 2026
Job Title: Policy Advisor (maternity cover)
Working For: Work Foundation at Lancaster University
Location: London or Lancaster
Salary: £39,906 to £46,049 (+ £3,506 London Weighting, pro-rata)
Length of Contract: 10-month fixed-term contract
Job Details
This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled Policy Advisor (maternity cover) to join the Work Foundation at Lancaster University. At a time of big changes in the world of work, we are looking for a talented individual who shares our goal to tackle structural inequalities in the UK labour market.
About you
The ideal candidate will be able to undertake research and policy analysis, help secure and manage funded research projects and clearly communicate complex issues to a range of audiences. Experience of building effective internal and external relationships with a wide range of groups including civil servants, academics, politicians, business leaders and workers will be a particular advantage.
The Policy Advisor will support the research team to deliver valuable new quantitative and qualitative evidence and insights. We are ambitious about delivering research that has a positive impact in society, and work closely with workers, employers and policymakers to realise that goal.
Working with us
We are a small, friendly and collaborative team. Flexible working is important to us at the Work Foundation and we’re open to candidates who would like to work flexible hours, part-time, or job share.
This role can either be London based at our office in Fetter Lane or based at the Lancaster University campus, with a hybrid working arrangement. Our team tend to work part of the week at home, and part of the week on site.
Benefits include a defined benefit pension with the USS Scheme, generous holiday entitlement (25 days plus five university closure days between Christmas and Easter), a Cycle to Work Scheme, a confidential Employee Assistance Programme and a range of other benefits and discounts.
Further information
To view the full Job Description and apply, please visit our website: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/work-foundation/about-us/vacancies/
About the Work Foundation at Lancaster University
We believe everyone should have access to secure, rewarding and high-quality work. By engaging directly with workers, employers, policymakers and leading academics, we deliver rigorous applied research to tackle structural inequalities in the labour market and improve working lives across the UK.
Terms and conditions
Please note we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position. No agencies please.
Closing Date: 5 March 2026
Interview/Start Dates
Closing time: 23.59
Interview date: Monday 16 March 2026
Start: Late March onwards
Application Details
For more information and to apply, please see: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/work-foundation/about-us/vacancies.
All applications will be by completing an online application. You will need to complete personal information and personal statement, and upload a CV and covering letter.
This is a maternity cover position for 10-months with a potential to be extended, but this is not guaranteed. Please note: it is the normal expectation of Lancaster University that the chosen candidate will be appointed to the minimum point of that grade.
Website: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/work-foundation/