This is a graduate opportunity open to individuals who have recently graduated from Durham University, Newcastle University, Northumbria University, the University of Sunderland or Teesside University within the past two years. Applicants must meet these eligibility criteria to be considered for the role.

This is an early-career opportunity for a recent graduate looking to develop experience in policy, research and partnership working. You will gain exposure to a range of activities, including researching policy developments, gathering and analysing information, supporting the preparation of reports and briefings, monitoring political and stakeholder developments, and assisting with the coordination of projects.

Working as part of a small team, you will work collaboratively with colleagues across the partnership and with external stakeholders. The role will provide an opportunity to develop your understanding of how policy, research and public affairs support strategic decision-making and collaborative working across the higher education sector.

We are looking for someone with the academic foundation, interest and potential to develop into this area. You do not need to have extensive previous policy experience; we are looking for strong research, organisational and communication skills, alongside a willingness to learn, take initiative and contribute to the work of the team.

Travel across the five universities may sometimes be required.

Further information about the role and its responsibilities is available in the

The role is fixed term for 18 months.

Interviews will take place week commencing 21st September 2026.

ABOUT UNIVERSITIES FOR NORTH EAST ENGLAND

Launched in November 2024, Universities for North East England (UNEE) is a partnership bringing together the universities of Durham, Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland and Teesside. Building on existing collaboration, UNEE is the unified place-informed voice of Higher Education in North East England, ensuring our role and contribution in the region is valued and advocating for and championing the North East region, Through UNEE we are collaborating to help educate the future workforce, support a vibrant regional economy and position and market the North East for investment and to advocate for evidence-based policy development.

• Strong research and analytical skills
• Strong planning and organising skills, adhering to timelines and budgets and able to manage competing priorities and pressures
• Keen interest in public policy and regional devolution
• Team player with strong interpersonal skills, ability to work with people at different levels across the organisation and external partners, agents, clients and customers
• Capabilities of IT systems and applications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to draft and prepare high-level reports and briefings etc.
• Potential/ability to operate in a changing environment and integrate new areas of work
• Self –motivated and able to work without close supervision
• Confident and able to use initiative

If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact ‘dionne.lee@unee.ac.uk .