Research Officer Graduate Scheme

Job Details

Research Officer Graduate Scheme

Do you want to build a meaningful career as a government social researcher, working on some of the UK's most important issues? Then apply to our Research Officer Graduate Scheme. 

We are looking for graduates who want to make a difference to society. If successful, you would join the UK Government as a Research Officer.

As a Research Officer working in the Civil Service, you could be analysing social trends, developing government policy, and evaluating how policies make a difference to public services.  

Your work might involve developing surveys, analysing data, producing statistics, reviewing existing research evidence, and working with other analysts in government to provide timely and relevant briefings for policy colleagues and ministers. 

As a Research Officer, you would join a vibrant community of over 2,500 social research professionals working across more than 30 government departments and agencies.

Salary and location vary according to government department. Please see the job descriptions on the application page for details. 

What are the benefits to joining the GSR Research Officer Graduate Scheme?  

• Meaningful work that makes a difference to society  
• Wide range of government departments across the UK
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• Flexible working  
• 25 days annual leave (+8 public holidays)  
• Generous pension scheme  
• Inclusive working environment

Who is eligible for the Research Officer Scheme?

GSR members come from a range of social science related backgrounds. There are two entry routes into the Social Research Scheme:

Qualification Route

This is for those with, or expecting to receive, a 2:2 or above undergraduate degree in a relevant subject which contains at least 30% social research methods training; or a 2:2 in any subject with a postgraduate degree in a relevant subject. Relevant subjects are defined in the candidate pack on the application page. You must check your eligibility against the full criteria within the candidate pack on the application page.

Or 

Experience Route

This route is for those with an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above in any subject. In addition, you must have at least 4 years social research practice experience and be able to provide evidence of the required skills and experience. You must check your eligibility against the full criteria in the candidate pack on the application page.

Join our online Q&A session 

We will be hosting a virtual Q&A session where you will be able to hear from some of our current Research Officers and ask any questions you may have about the job and recruitment process. This will take place on Thursday 13 February, 16:30-17:30 and joining details are on the application webpage. 

“I am passionate about bringing to light people’s experiences of complex social issues. I decided to pursue a career in social research as it would be both meaningful and impactful.” 

Richa, Government Social Researcher, Department for Transport

About Government Social Research 

Hello. We are Government Social Research (GSR), the professional body for social researchers in the Civil Service. Our social researchers study and analyse various aspects of society, like people’s behaviour, opinions, and needs. This then helps the government make informed decisions. We recruit students, graduates, and apprentices to work in over 30 departments across the UK.

If you want to gain practical experience and use your research skills to make a difference, then join the UK Government for a paid student placement! You would spend a year working alongside social researchers and policy officials before returning to your studies. The job could involve analysing research data to help government decision making, evaluating the impact of policies, and providing social research advice to help shape government strategy. 

How to apply

To apply for this role and to find out more, please click on the apply button.

Please note that applications may close before the application deadline, so apply early to avoid disappointment.