Research Assistant Review

I worked as a Research Assistant within the ARTIS directorate of the PRA. I was part of a small team that had the role of ensuring the smooth running of the wider directorate as well as holding it to account. This made for a varied role so day-to-day is hard to define but some of the regular tasks I would do related to compliance, analysis of wellbeing and workload in the directorate and helping teams with their use of tools and systems.

Yes, I learnt how to use quite a few internal Bank tools. I also started to learn how to use new data tools such as tableau and R. By using Excel regularly I found I naturally developed my excel skills throughout my placement too. I found the training offering at the Bank was broad and accessible. In particular, my directorate held a monthly training afternoon to encourage people to engage in training and for people to share their expertise with others.

Yes, I was given lots of responsibility while on placement. I had a clearly defined role that I had to own and be responsible for as well as having the freedom to take on and own extra tasks that came in when I had the resource to do so. Was treated like any other member of staff (not just a placement student) and was given a high level of responsibility that reflected that.

My team and the wider directorate were supportive and welcoming. My year was was made harder by joining virtually during the pandemic but I soon felt settled. I can't say enough how much I enjoyed working with some people in my directorate, the atmosphere was so friendly and collaborative. The future talent team were also always on hand to help with any placement specific questions

Friendly, collaborative and purposeful. Everyone in my area was so welcoming and I leave the placement year with a number of colleagues I'll be staying in touch with. The atmosphere encouraged collaboration without too intense a pressure which allowed you to take on and own your work without too much stress or an overwhelming fear of failing. It was always clear why we were doing the work we did which helped make the work purposeful and focused.

Overall, I had a great year. There were tough periods due to joining virtually and dealing with working from home during the pandemic but I still had an amazing time. Especially enjoyed getting into the office semi-regularly during the final months of my placement.

Yes

Be yourself! Authenticity is key. The Bank is looking for people who want to work there and want to be a part of the unique culture. It is much better to be interested and try to understand why you are doing something than just doing something for the sake of doing it. In the application process, think about what you have done that shows what you can bring to the Bank. Remember, the assessors want you to work for them, try to take your nerves away and enjoy the day. It was one of the most interesting and relevant/realistic assessment centres I came across when applying for placements.