Principal researcher (education)

Nesta Principal Researcher
Location London, UK
Application deadline 9 September 2019
Contract type Permanent
Hours Full-time
Salary GBP45,000 - GBP56,000 plus excellent benefits
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Nesta is an innovation foundation. For us, innovation means turning bold ideas into reality and changing lives for the better. We use our expertise, skills and funding in areas where there are big challenges facing society. Nesta is based in the UK and supported by a financial endowment. We work with partners around the globe to bring bold ideas to life to change the world for good.

The role

Working within the Education team in the Innovation Programmes department, our successful candidate will focus on leading the education research agenda, producing research on how technology can be used to reimagine schooling, what works in building confidence in disadvantaged students and what interventions build future skills. You will also take responsibility for winning income for new research from research funders, public sector bodies and businesses and represent Nesta at expert meetings and policy events.

Key roles and responsibilities

You will also be expected to:

  • Write clear and engaging policy briefings, discussion papers, presentations, research reports and blogs
  • Stay up-to-date on the latest thinking about innovations in education
  • Identify relevant research questions and ensure the team stays at the cutting edge of how data, technology and business networks can be used to improve education
  • Work closely with the communications team to try and make educational research impactful on policy and practice

Experience and skills

What we are looking for:

An original and creative thinker who is excited about exploring new forms of outputs and methods of research, you will have the proven ability to research and work independently, with good attention to detail, a clear writing style and a commitment to fact checking your own work. You will also have experience leading on the production of research outputs for multiple audiences and of successfully working in a fast-paced research or think tank environment.

Outstanding organisational, interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, are vital, as is the ability to work well in a team and under pressure.

How to apply

For further details about this post, and to apply, please complete the application form on our website.
Closing date: 9 September 2019 at 8am
First interviews will be held on September 20th, 2019.