Social Policy Economist/Quantitative Researcher

Social Policy Economist/Quantitative Researcher

Full time, permanent contract with 6 months’ probation.

NEF is looking for an economist or quantitative researcher to join its social policy team. This is an excellent opportunity to join a leading Westminster think tank, ideal for a curious and energetic researcher who is excited by NEF’s mission to build an economy that works for people and planet.

We strongly encourage you to apply if this role interests you, even if you’re not sure you meet every outlined criteria. We take an open-minded approach to how candidates may have developed the skills needed for the role.

We’re looking for someone with strong experience in rigorous quantitative public policy research, alongside specific knowledge of labour markets, public services, social security, or a related area. You’ll bring the energy and creativity to challenge established orthodoxies, and the skills to develop robust, innovative approaches to complex public policy challenges.

Economists and researchers at NEF bring deep expertise in at least one key UK economic or social policy area. They apply strong economic and quantitative research skills, working collaboratively to produce high quality analysis and insight, and taking ownership of discrete elements within larger projects.

A key part of the role is connecting research to contemporary debates, and communicating complex ideas clearly and persuasively to a range of audiences, both internally and externally.

Role: Social Policy Economist/Quantitative Researcher
Hours of work: Full Time (32 hours per week under NEF’s Shorter Working Week)
Salary: £44,769 - £49,764
Location: London/South East (in-office minimum two days per week)
Contract type: Permanent

How to apply

Deadline for applications: midnight, 10th June 2026
Interviews:  First stage interviews 23rd June with second stage in person interviews on the 29th June

Start date: ASAP

Please send your CV and Covering letter (no longer than 1 page and in Word format) outlining how you meet the person specification. 

Please also complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form.

You must be eligible to work in the UK, as we are unable to sponsor visas.

Inclusivity at NEF:

NEF wants to be an inclusive workplace with a diverse body of staff. We don’t want to conform to the traditional think-tank model where people from certain backgrounds are hugely under-

represented. We know we have some way to go in this and are therefore genuinely keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic people; women; neurodivergent people; disabled people; people who identify as LGBT+; people with experience of mental health problems; and people who identify as working class or have done so in the past.

Accessibility and Equal Opportunity:

We value all candidates and are committed to equal opportunity. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during the application process, or would like information in an alternative format, please let us know.

We actively promote positive action to advance fairness and tackle underrepresentation within our workforce.