Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant/Research Associate at the new Bennett School of Public Policy (BSPP) in the Faculty of Human, Social and Political Science. Funding is available from February 2027.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Bennett School of Public Policy (BSPP) in its early stages https://www.bennettschool.cam.ac.uk/ . The BSPP, part of the Faculty of Human, Social and Political Science, has an ambitious growth plan including launching a new M.Phil in Digital Policy alongside an expanded M.Phil in Public Policy, and the development of a new PhD programme. It is led by its inaugural Director Professor Michael Kenny and Professor Diane Coyle, the Bennett Professor of Public Policy.

The Bennett School of Public Policy is seeking a Research Assistant/Research Associate to deliver a 12-month project on the depreciation of data assets. The 2025 System of National Accounts explicitly recognized the need to account for data as an intangible asset. This project contributes to the development of an operational framework for measuring data as an asset in the UK National Accounts. Building on ONS's experimental estimates of data investment using the sum-of-costs approach, the project will develop empirical estimates of data depreciation rates for capital stock calculations. The project will also assess the valuation methodology with a view to identifying quality measures, to better capture data's exchange value as AI use increases across the economy.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for a researcher with a strong background in econometrics and familiarity with accessing UK data from the Office for National Statistics including the Secure Research Service. Applications from candidates with backgrounds in public policy, and with experience of engaging with external audiences, including policy-makers, are particularly welcome.

Candidates for the post of Research Associate should normally have a PhD (submitted or nearly submitted at the time of application), or, for candidates without a PhD, substantial and demonstrable research skills (academic or professional) that reflect equivalent research capability. All candidates should be able to demonstrate experience of relevant research methods and be able to provide evidence of potential for research and publication at the highest level, and a good understanding of the policy process.

Salary Ranges: Research Associate (Grade 7): £38,441-46,970. Those on an academic pathway who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5): £35,302-£36,320 moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.

In order for applications to be considered applicants must upload:

-A covering letter (2 pages max), explaining the reasons for your application and how your knowledge, skills and experience match the requirements of the role you are applying for

-A Curriculum Vitae (CV), to include full details of educational qualifications and academic experience, and a list of publications

-A recent writing sample (maximum 6,000 words).

-The contact details of two referees

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on Tuesday 24th November 2026 and interviews are expected to take place shortly after.

Further information about the BSPP can be found at: https://www.bennettschool.cam.ac.uk/

Applications should be made online. Applicants must provide the names and contact details of two referees who are familiar with their work.

Enquiries about applications should be addressed to Gita Aminpour: [email removed].

Please quote reference UP51567 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.