Job Overview
We are looking for a highly skilled and intellectually curious Principal Researcher with a PhD in Statistics, or a closely related field to lead the design, analysis, and interpretation of research and evaluation projects that inform systemic improvements across the UK careers and education ecosystem.
This cross-functional role blends literature-based insight, impact evaluation, and advanced data analytics, requiring both technical depth and strategic thinking. You will lead the full project lifecycle — from framing research questions and designing methodologies to delivering high-quality insights to stakeholders.
Duties
- Conduct systematic literature reviews and horizon scans
- Perform qualitative and quantitative landscape analysis
- Translate findings into actionable, system-wide recommendations
- Write policy-relevant reports for diverse stakeholder audiences
- Develop theories of change and logic models for national programmes
- Design and manage mixed-method evaluation strategies
- Lead data collection, outcome tracking, and impact assessments
- Synthesize findings into accessible outputs (e.g. dashboards, briefs, infographics)
- Provide strategic input on hypothesis development and testing
- Analyse large-scale and national administrative datasets
- Apply multivariable regression, causal inference, and other advanced methods
- Triangulate across datasets and deliver insights in clear, non-technical language
Qualifications
- PhD in Statistics, Political Statistics, Social Research, or related field
- Strong experience with statistical modelling
- Proficiency in R, Python, SQL, Bash for data analysis
- Ability to translate complex findings into strategic insight
- Experience in careers, education, labor markets, or public sector research is a strong plus
Why Join Us
- Work at the forefront of data-informed education and careers policy
- Drive systems-level change through rigorous, impactful research
- Collaborate with government bodies, think tanks, and nonprofits
- Flexible working and remote-friendly team culture
How to Apply
Please submit your CV via our online application form.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a virtual interview and task-based assessment.
Apply online here: https://hr.globalstatsol.com/st/stat_1001/
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 24 months
Pay: £36,000.00-£42,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Flexitime
Work Location: In person