19494BR
Cardiff Business School
Research
Research Associate
Wales Centre for Public Policy
Co-funded by the Welsh Government, Economic and Social Research Council and Cardiff University, the Wales Centre for Public Policy bridges the gap between academic research and policy makers/practitioners by generating and mobilising evidence that improves policy decisions and public services.
The Centre collaborates with leading researchers from across the UK and internationally to generate, synthesise and mobilise research evidence that can be applied to tackle pressing economic, environmental and social challenges. Staff enjoy excellent access to senior policy makers and public service leaders which enables them to achieve research impact at national and local level.
We are seeking to recruit an outstanding individual to manage and conduct high quality, policy research, working closely with leading researchers and policy makers on current policy developments particularly in relation to environment and net zero, community wellbeing and tackling inequalities.
You must have a good understanding of public policy; the ability to work directly with public service leaders; a commitment to high quality policy relevant research; excellent communication and organisational skills; and the ability to work as part of the Centre’s wider team.
The Centre supports hybrid working and the successful candidate will need to be available to work from its offices in Cardiff 1-2 days per week (with some flexibility). The post is available as a part-time (15 hours per week) or full-time (35 hours per week) role. In your supporting statement, please indicate your preferred number of hours.
We encourage potential applicants to contact Amanda Hill-Dixon (Senior Research Fellow – amanda.hill-dixon@wcpp.org.uk) for an informal discussion about the role. Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.
Job Description
Main function
To manage, commission, conduct and mobilise high quality research evidence and expertise that assists public service leaders and Welsh Government ministers to tackle pressing policy challenges and encourages a culture of evidence use in public services.
Research Responsibilities
1. To contribute to the identification of the evidence needs of public services and policy makers in Wales.
2. To manage processes to identify and evaluate potential research projects for Public Service Boards and public services.
3. To work with public service leaders to review and synthesise research evidence to identify policy-relevant findings and recommendations.
4. To commission, manage and quality assure research commissioned from policy experts.
5. To contribute to the design and delivery of initiatives to embed evidence use in public services.
6. To disseminate research findings to public service leaders and policy makers through engaging reports, policy briefings, blogs, social media and podcasts.
7. To design and facilitate workshops, roundtables and events with a range of stakeholders.
8. To promote awareness of and engagement with the Centre’s work among public service leaders and research networks.
9. To contribute to other activities that enhance research impact, such as engaging with local and national media.
10. To participate in networks to influence decisions and explore future research requirements.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
Qualifications And Education
1. A postgraduate degree in a related subject area, or relevant equivalent professional experience.
Knowledge, Skills And Experience
1. An established expertise and proven portfolio of policy research and/or research management.
2. A proven ability to engage with public services and/or government in innovative ways.
3. An understanding of the barriers to evidence use in public services and/or government.
4. Experience of developing and delivering effective stakeholder engagement.
5. Knowledge of current public policy issues in Wales and beyond.
Communication and Team Working
1. Ability to communicate effectively and persuasively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
2. Ability to work effectively with colleagues in the Centre and researchers in the wider university.
Desirable Criteria
1. Experience of working in or with public services and/or government.
2. Knowledge of policy design or behavioural science.
3. The ability to communicate in Welsh.
Salary Range
£40,247 - £45,163 per annum, pro-rata if worked part-time (Grade 6).
Date advert posted: Friday, 14 February 2025
Closing date: Friday, 7 March 2025
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