Job Description

RAND Europe is an independent, not-for-profit research organisation whose mission is to help improve policy and decision-making through rigorous and independent research and analysis. We benefit the public interest through the impact and wide dissemination of over 200 projects per year. Our work at its most impactful changes policy, practice and process to the benefit of the public good. That is also our organisational mission

RAND Europe has approximately 200 staff across offices in Cambridge, Brussels, and the Hague. Our staff represents 22 nationalities, speaks over 20 languages and covers 31 academic disciplines. Our multi- and inter-disciplinary approaches to research generate unique perspectives and insights for our wide-ranging government, foundation and other NGO clients.

The Defence, Security and Justice Research Group undertakes research across a number of public policy areas, including drug policy, crime and justice. We employ robust methods and offer multi-disciplinary perspectives.

We are looking for a Research Analyst to tackle critical issues in crime and justice, supporting a portfolio of major projects on:

• Policing
• Prisons
• Youth offending
• Drug use, supply and regulation
• Vulnerable offenders
• Serious organised crime and corruption
• Illicit markets
• Cybercrime and online hate.

Our projects are diverse in nature, including evaluations of criminal justice policies and programmes (randomised controlled trials and quasi-experimental impact evaluations, process evaluations and economic evaluations), evidence syntheses, international comparisons, workshops, futures scenarios and toolkits. We encourage applications from those with training and expertise in one of several or these methods and approaches.

You will have the opportunity to work alongside renowned experts on projects with national and international reach and conduct cutting-edge research using a variety of methods. You will be able to drive positive change by translating research into clear, actionable policy recommendations.

The position offers huge potential to be involved the design and implementation of all steps of the research process, from proposing research ideas, detailed research design, data collection, analysis and reporting, as well as research management, ethics and governance.

Responsibilities

• Managing research projects including budgeting, timetables, deliverables, and delegating tasks to team members.

Conducting high-quality research by:

• Drafting data collection tools (surveys, topic guides, etc.)
• Conducting in-depth literature reviews.
• Collecting data through interviews, focus groups, or other methods.
• Analysing quantitative and qualitative data using appropriate tools and software.
• Preparing clear and concise presentations and research briefs for policymakers and other audiences.
• Drafting sections of research reports with minimal supervision.
• Maintaining regular communication with collaborators, clients, and funders to ensure project success.
• Identifying opportunities to disseminate research findings through publications, conferences, media and presentations.
• Contributing to business development activities by seeking new research opportunities and contributing to research proposals.
• Supporting strategic corporate initiatives aligned with RAND Europe's mission.

Requirements

Thematic expertise – essential

• PhD in a social science, public policy or related discipline (or be close to finishing a PhD) or 3+ years of relevant experience in applied crime and justice research.

• Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the following areas: drug policy, illicit markets, organised crime, criminal justice, policing, prisons
• Flexibility and interest to work on a broader range of themes within the drug policy, crime and justice portfolio

Methodological skills - essential

• Experience with a variety of research methodologies (quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods).

Communication skills - essential

• Excellent report writing skills, with the ability to tailor content for policy audiences.

• Strong oral presentation skills.
• Fluency in English – essential
• Proficiency in other languages – desired.

• Good problem-solving skills.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritise work.
• Ability to work flexibly and to deadlines

Management – desirable

• Experience managing research projects in professional services or public sector domains.
• Experience in communicating and dealing with clients in the public and third sector.

RAND Europe currently offer flexible working, with a collaborative office attendance two to three times a week.

Salary

Starting from £33,000 per anum.

Benefits

• Pension - 8% Employer contribution;
• 33 days holiday allowance, including the Bank Holidays;
• Annual salary review;
• BUPA medical insurance;
• Generous company sick pay;
• Enhanced family friendly policies;
• Group income protection scheme;
• Group life assurance;
• Compassionate leave;
• Flexible working arrangements;
• Learning and development opportunities;
• Employee wellbeing training and support;
• Fresh fruit every day;
• Free on-site parking;
• Cycle to work scheme;
• Access to company bikes;
• Service awards.

Application

If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising of a CV and covering letter. The closing date for applications is 12 April 2026.

If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.