Senior Quantitative Research Analyst – Defence and Security

London, Cambridge
March 4, 2024

Job Description

Job title: Senior Quantitative Research Analyst – Defence and Security

Company: Rand Europe

Job description: RAND Europe is a not-for-profit policy research organisation. Our mission is to help improve policy- and decision-making through evidence-based research and analysis. We realise our mission by undertaking objective, balanced and relevant research, sharing the insights and information widely, and working in partnership with a range of clients and collaborators.

RAND Europe has offices in Cambridge, Brussels and Rotterdam and employs approximately 170 staff: just over half of our research staff have doctorates with the balance holding other post-graduate degrees. Our work lies on the continuum between that of universities and consultancies, combining the academic rigour of universities and the professional, task orientated approach of consultancies. In addition to our strong ethos of evidence-based research, RAND Europe is a values-driven organisation, and our experience shows that our most successful researchers closely align their behaviours with our value set.

The Defence and Security Research Group conducts a wide-ranging portfolio of research for a diverse client base in the UK, Europe and beyond. Our clients include UK government departments (e.g. Ministry of Defence, Home Office, Office for Veterans Affairs), EU institutions (e.g. European Commission, European Parliament), national and international defence and security organisations (e.g. national defence departments, NATO), and various third sector and humanitarian organisations. Our work covers a broad range of public policy issue issues across: • Defence (the Armed Forces Community and the Defence workforce; strategy, policy and capability; acquisition; technology; space; Defence economics; futures and foresight; gaming and operational analysis) • Security (terrorism; counter-violent extremism; human security; border security; energy security; resilience and cyber)

The Defence and Security Research Group is seeking a Senior Research Analyst to enhance our Defence & Security (DS) Research Group. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping public policy research in defence and security, influencing high-level government decision-making in the UK, the European Union, and globally.

This role offers the chance to engage in intellectually stimulating work within a dynamic and diverse team, tackling a broad spectrum of topics, and employing cutting-edge quantitative methods.

We welcome applications from a range of experience levels, from those slightly below to those exceeding our criteria, for positions as Research Analyst, Senior Research Analyst, or Research Leader.

Key responsibilities

  • Lead and support impactful policy research, mentor staff, and expand our research scope.
  • Spearhead business development and project delivery within the DS portfolio, emphasising the integration of quantitative research to bolster evidence, manage proposals, and cultivate funding relationships.
  • Coordinate complex projects, mentor a team of talented researchers, and drive the impact of our work through strategic communication and outreach.
  • Utilise a broad spectrum of quantitative analysis skills and remain committed to continuous learning and methodological innovation.

Requirements

  • Demonstrated proficiency in quantitative research methods, ideally within Defence and security policy. (e.g., statistical analysis, machine learning, causal inference, simulation modelling, network analysis, econometrics, natural language processing, use of large language models etc.)
  • Strong project management skills, including budgeting and team leadership.
  • Exceptional analytical, writing, and presentation abilities, with a knack for conveying complex concepts to diverse audiences.
  • A track record of collaborative research and team motivation, with a focus on skills and career development.
  • Higher Degree in a quantitative research discipline.
  • Additional technical skills (e.g., general coding skills, data mining, dashboard and tool development, data management, data visualisation etc.).
  • Ability to explain quantitative research to non-specialists and integrate it into mix-methods projects.
  • Eligibility for UK Security Clearance (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Personal Qualities:

  • Strategic and analytical thinker with a practical perspective.
  • Networking and presentation skills to foster relationships and secure funding.
  • Team-oriented with a commitment to rigorous research and public service.
  • Eagerness to learn, contribute to team development, and embrace new challenges.

This role is based in our Cambridge office, with a hybrid working model and occasional travel, primarily to London.

Benefits

  • 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.

How to Apply

If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising of a CV and covering letter. The deadline for applications is 03/03/24.

If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.

Expected salary: £41000 per year

Location: Cambridge

Location