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.
NGI Forward is tasked with helping to set the strategy and policy agenda of the Next Generation Internet initiative, the European Commission’s ambitious new flagship programme seeking to build a more inclusive, democratic and resilient future internet.
The role
Are you a motivated, organised and ambitious researcher interested in the impacts and opportunities presented by the internet and digital technologies? Nesta is looking for a Senior Researcher to join our Explorations team, Nesta’s dedicated futures and emerging technologies unit, where you will support the delivery of our major European Commission-funded programme, NGI Forward, exploring the future of the internet and Europe’s role in shaping it.
Key roles and responsibilities
This position will see you playing a crucial role in our research activities and events, covering a wide range of internet-related topics, from data governance to sustainability of internet infrastructures to the impacts of emerging technologies. To achieve this, you will be expected to create insightful, compelling, actionable research outputs to an excellent written standard for a range of audiences, and disseminate these widely to ensure impact. You will also:
- Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research around emerging technologies
- Produce engaging and accurate written analysis, plus experiment with other creative types of outputs
- Stay up-to-date on the latest internet and technology developments
- Run research workshops, carry out expert interviews, and publish quality analysis for a range of audiences
- Devise concepts for dynamic events with creative formats
- Contribute content for Nesta’s larger flagship NGI ‘Policy and Research’ summits
Experience and skills
What we are looking for:
Educated to degree level, you will have an interest in a diverse set of technologies and scientific fields as demonstrated by a successful track record of working in policy or research in this sector or linked area. You will also have experience of successfully working in fast-paced research or think tank environment on both short-term and larger in-depth pieces of research, and be able to get up-to-speed quickly with new subject areas.
A self-starter, able to take initiative with strong problem-solving and analytical abilities, you must also be an excellent communicator, verbal and written, able to present analytical and research material communicating complex information in an easy-to-understand form for a range of different audiences.
Other information
Nesta is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion – we welcome and encourage applications from everyone.
Closing date: 4 November 2019 at 8am. First interviews will be held week commencing 11 November 2019. 2nd interviews will be held week commencing 18 November 2019.