Research Analyst - Research and Innovation Ecosystems

About RAND Europe

RAND Europe is a not-for-profit, independent research organization dedicated to enhancing policy and decision-making through rigorous and unbiased research and analysis. Conducting over 200 projects annually, the organization aims to influence public policy and practice for societal benefit. With a diverse team of around 200 professionals across offices in Cambridge, Brussels, and The Hague, staff members bring expertise from more than 30 academic disciplines and multiple languages.

The Science and Emerging Technology group at RAND Europe engages in wide-ranging policy research across three key areas: research and innovation policy, emerging technology policy, and energy and environment policy. Their research addresses topics such as innovation systems evaluation, AI and biotechnology impacts, climate change, and sustainability.

Role Overview

We seek a skilled Research Analyst to join our Research & Innovation Policy team in Cambridge. This full-time, onsite role requires a hybrid work pattern with at least one day weekly presence in the office. Fluency in English is essential; proficiency in additional languages is advantageous.

Key Responsibilities

• Gather and analyze qualitative and quantitative data to support research on innovation ecosystems using methods including literature reviews, interviews, workshops, surveys, economic and econometric modeling, and statistical techniques.
• Manage and coordinate research activities ensuring projects meet timelines and budgets, collaborating with clients and team members.
• Contribute to preparation of research outputs such as reports, presentations, peer-reviewed articles, and blog posts.
• Assist with business development through proposal writing and supporting grant acquisition efforts.

Qualifications and Skills

• Postgraduate degree or equivalent with experience in policy, consultancy, or research.
• Strong analytical thinking, structured problem-solving, excellent writing, and presentation abilities demonstrated through prior work.
• Interest and knowledge in research and innovation ecosystems including funding, collaborations, evaluation, and research culture topics.
• Experience successfully delivering research or evaluation projects and working effectively within teams.
• Ability to communicate complex research clearly to diverse audiences including non-technical stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to complete projects within deadlines and budgets.

Personal Attributes

• Commercially aware, strategic and practical thinker.
• Proactive team player with a commitment to rigorous research and high-quality client service.
• Eager to learn and contribute to training and development.
• Self-motivated, energetic, comfortable working with uncertainty, and attentive to business opportunities.
• Open-minded, receptive to feedback and challenges.

Compensation and Benefits

Starting salary from £33,000 per year.

• 8% employer pension contribution.
• 33 days annual leave including bank holidays.
• Salary reviews annually.
• BUPA medical insurance coverage.
• Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies.
• Group income protection and life assurance schemes.
• Compassionate leave provisions.
• Flexible working options and wellbeing support.
• Fresh fruit available daily and complimentary on-site parking.
• Cycle to work scheme and access to company bicycles.
• Recognition through service awards.

Application Process

Candidates should submit a CV along with a cover letter. The application deadline is Monday, 31 August 2026. Interviews are scheduled during the week of 14 September 2026. Candidates not contacted within 30 days after the deadline should consider the application unsuccessful.