Research Leader – R&I Policy, Metascience, Science and Emerging Technology

RAND Europe

Research Leader leading evaluations in R&I policy and metascience at RAND Europe. Working with a diverse team to impact policy within government and industry.

Posted 6/29/2026full-timeCambridge • 🇬🇧 United KingdomSenior💰 £53,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Taking forward RAND Europe’s successful research track record in research and innovation policy, developing and managing a portfolio of large, complex evaluations and expanding into new areas of work.
Providing thought leadership on research/evaluation approaches and R&I systems and strategy.
Mentoring research staff and facilitating development of others' project management and methodological skills.
Taking a leading role in ensuring that RAND Europe’s research has a positive impact within policy communities.
**Business development**
Contributing to the work of SET, through contributing to or supporting the delivery of research group target revenues and sales by securing funding for research and consultancy tasks and supporting others in doing so.
Co-ordinating, managing and supporting a portfolio of business development initiatives including leading and supporting bid and proposal activity, often as multi-partner proposals.
Consolidating and initiating networks and contacts with funders and collaborators
**Group and other responsibilities**
Working with other team members and the Research Group Director to develop SET’s research and strategy.
As a senior member of the team, setting a collegiate tone and contributing to the development and profile of the wider organisation.
Leading on innovative ways to raise RAND Europe’s profile and communicate research findings to maximise impact.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Experience in identifying, developing and delivering research and/or evaluation projects focusing on R&I systems. Disciplinary background is less important than proven expertise in winning and delivering work on relevant topics. Areas of expertise could include:
- Metascience
- Evaluation of R&I investments
- R&I policy and analysis
- Scientometrics
- Economic analysis of R&I
Excellent evidence of leading a team, motivating others, mentoring and developing colleagues for career progression.
Excellent analytical, writing and presentation skills (evidenced by examples) and the proven ability to communicate effectively with clients and to varied audiences.
Proven track record in identifying, developing and managing significant projects in an area of focus for our R&I portfolio (e.g. metascience, evaluations of R&I programmes).
A proven ability to distil complex information and engage with detail in light of bigger picture issues and to message research and analysis findings clearly, succinctly and in consideration of target audiences.
**Personal qualities:**
Commercially astute, analytical thinker with the ability to see issues strategically and at a practical level from a variety of perspectives.
The networking and sales presentation skills to build relationships at senior levels, facilitate joint decision making and develop an order book of business with potential funders and collaborators.
An inclusive, motivated leader and coach with the inspirational interpersonal skills to motivate a team, instil standards of excellence and develop people as appropriate for career progression.
Hands-on, team player with a strong commitment to rigorous research, customer service and the ability to project manage multiple tasks and work to tight deadlines.
Self-starter with high energy levels, who is comfortable working with ambiguity as well as process, and quick to spot a commercial opportunity.
Open minded, with the humility to recognise success in others and accept challenge from highly capable junior members of the team.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Pension - 8% Employer contribution;
33 days holiday allowance, including the Bank Holidays;
Annual salary review;
BUPA medical insurance;
Generous company sick pay;
Enhanced family friendly policies;
Group income protection scheme;
Group life assurance;
Compassionate leave;
Flexible working arrangements;
Learning and development opportunities;
Employee wellbeing training and support;
Fresh fruit every day;
Free on-site parking;
Cycle to work scheme;
Access to company bikes;
Service awards.

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

MetascienceEvaluation Of R&I InvestmentsR&I Policy And AnalysisScientometricsEconomic Analysis Of R&I

Soft Skills

MentoringInterpersonal SkillsMotivational LeadershipNetworkingCommunication Skills