Research Associate

Temporary contract until 31st July 2026 
Policy Research and Training Associate - The Open University
Location: Hybrid / x1 visit per month to Cardiff campus (CF10 3AT) plus other onsite training courses around the UK with all expenses paid for.
Pay Rate: £24.56 to £26.05 (negotiable dependent on experience level)
Hours: Full-time, 37 hrs per week

About PolicyWISE
PolicyWISE is a cross-nation public policy research and knowledge exchange initiative led by The Open University. The programme connects researchers, policymakers and public sector leaders to support evidence-informed policymaking across the UK. PolicyWISE works collaboratively with governments, universities and research organisations to address shared societal challenges through comparative policy analysis, training and knowledge exchange.
The initiative operates across the four nations of the UK, bringing together policymakers and academics to develop stronger links between research evidence and policy decisions.
We are now seeking a Policy Research and Training Associate to support their growing programme of comparative policy research and professional training.

The Role
This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career researcher to contribute to innovative policy engagement and research activities across the UK. The successful candidate will work closely with the PolicyWISE team, academic partners and policymakers to support research, deliver training programmes and strengthen knowledge exchange between academia and government.
The role combines research, stakeholder engagement and training delivery, with opportunities to work with academics, civil servants and policy professionals at all career stages.

Key Responsibilities
Research and Policy Analysis

• Conduct and support comparative public policy research across the UK and Ireland.
• Analyse and interpret data to support evidence-based policy insights and reports.
• Produce research outputs including policy briefings, reports and analytical summaries.
• Contribute to systematic reviews and comparative research projects.
• Work with the research team to identify new research opportunities and policy priorities.

Training and Capacity Building

• Design, develop and deliver training programmes for policymakers, researchers and academic audiences.
• Facilitate training workshops and interactive sessions (online and in person).
• Develop new training materials and enhance existing programmes.
• Deliver sessions on topics such as policy engagement, comparative policy analysis and the UK's devolved policy landscape.
• Collect feedback and impact data from training activities to continuously improve delivery.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, academics and policy practitioners across the UK.
• Engage with stakeholders including civil servants, universities and research organisations.
• Support knowledge exchange activities that strengthen links between research and policymaking.
• Work collaboratively with internal research and development teams to expand the PolicyWISE training offer.

Programme Support

• Support the delivery of PolicyWISE activities across the four nations of the UK.
• Contribute to engagement events, workshops and policy discussions.
• Assist with monitoring the impact and outcomes of research and training initiatives.

Candidate Requirements
Essential

• PhD or EdD (completed or near completion) in public policy, political science, social policy or a related discipline.
• Knowledge of contemporary public policy issues across the UK and Ireland.
• Experience conducting policy-related research or comparative analysis.
• Ability to communicate research findings clearly to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Confidence presenting, facilitating training or speaking in professional settings.
• Excellent written communication and analytical skills.

Desirable

• Experience designing or delivering training programmes within a policy or research environment.
• Knowledge of comparative policy analysis and systematic review methods.
• Experience working with policymakers, civil servants or public sector stakeholders.
• Familiarity with the UK's devolved policy landscape and governance structures.

Tools and Working Environment
You will primarily work with:

• Microsoft Office tools for research and reporting
• Online learning and training platforms
• Data analysis and research resources

The role involves a hybrid working model, with occasional travel to deliver training sessions and attend events across the UK (for example Westminster or Edinburgh).

Why Join PolicyWISE
PolicyWISE is rapidly emerging as a leading voice in comparative policy research, supporting collaboration between governments and researchers across the UK and Ireland. The initiative has already delivered training and engagement programmes for hundreds of participants, including researchers and senior civil servants.
Joining the team offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of research, policy and professional development, shaping how evidence informs policymaking across the UK.

How to Apply? Please click 'Apply' and submit your most up-to-date CV.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The Open University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion which is reflected in our mission to be open to people, places, methods and ideas. We aim to foster a diverse and inclusive environment so that all in our OU community can reach their potential. We recognise that different people bring different perspectives, ideas, knowledge, and culture, and that this difference brings great strength. We strive to recruit, retain and develop the careers of a diverse pool of students and staff, and particularly encourage applications from all underrepresented groups. We also aspire to make The Open University a supportive workplace for all through our policies, services and staff networks.
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