Research Consultant
Salary: £26,000–£27,500 + discretionary bonus
Location: London
Working pattern: Hybrid (office, home, client/fieldwork)
About SQW
SQW is a leading independent consultancy providing research, analysis and advice in economic and social development. We work with public sector clients to design, deliver and evaluate policies that shape a better society — from supporting business growth and innovation to tackling inequalities in health, employment and skills.
The Opportunity
We are looking for bright, motivated graduates to join our Research Consultant Development Programme.
This structured two-year programme provides:
*Structure and support to boost your professional development
*Early exposure to client projects across all areas of our work
*Opportunities to collaborate with peers and senior colleagues across our UK offices
You’ll play a meaningful role from day one, contributing to work that influences national and local policy.
What You’ll Do
As a Research Consultant, you’ll be involved in a wide range of research and consultancy activities, including:
*Analysing quantitative data, such as socio-economic datasets and surveys
*Conducting literature and policy reviews
*Undertaking qualitative analysis including interviews and document reviews
*Supporting bespoke primary research involving interviews, workshops and focus groups with service users, businesses and public bodies
*Contributing to reports and presentations
*Engaging with colleagues, stakeholders and clients in meetings and presentations
Areas of Work
You’ll gain experience across multiple policy areas. Examples of our work in these areas includes: including:
*Innovation and business growth: evaluations of business support programmes led by the British Business Bank and Be The Business; research on what works in enhancing the diversity of venture capital investment; a socio-economic impact assessment of the Pirbright Institute; a progress evaluation of the Government Office for Technology Transfer; and an impact evaluation of UKRI’s Innovation Accelerator Programme.
*Spatial and local economic development: evaluations of City, Devolution and Growth Deal investment funds in thirteen localities across the UK; the development of new economic strategies in East Sussex, Dudley, Denbighshire and Coventry and Warwickshire; a ’Jet Zero’ cluster study in Surrey and Hampshire; a Delivery Plan for Ayrshire’s Regional Economic Strategy, a study of coastal communities in Suffolk; the development of new housing development appraisal guidance; plus various feasibility studies, market assessments and delivery strategies for innovation districts and centres across the UK.
*Education, skills and employment: evaluations of the Work and Health programmes in Greater Manchester and London; research into the impact of involvement by young people in youth activities; research for a national charity on international best practice in work experience for school-age students; the development of local Get Britain Working plans; and skills; and labour market analyses for Skills Development Scotland.
*Health and social care: a rapid evidence review on improvement cultures in health and adult social care settings; an evaluation of a programme looking to improve the use of data analytics within social care; and a study to explore the impact of non-statutory and clinical mental health interventions on young people.
About You
We’re looking for candidates who are:
Essential:
*Educated to degree level (minimum 2:1) in a discipline such as economics, politics, geography or science
*Strong analytical, written and communication skills
*Organised, collaborative and able to manage their time effectively
Desirable:
*A postgraduate qualification
*Strong quantitative research skills including knowledge of econometrics, statistical modelling and data science applications
*An interest in UK public policy and economic development
Most importantly, you’re curious, motivated, and eager to learn.
What We Offer
We provide a competitive remuneration package, including:
*Competitive basic salary
*Performance related bonus
*Flexible working
*Contributory pension scheme with up to 5% matching contributions
*25 days’ annual holiday
*Income Protection and Life Assurance
*Flexible benefits options, which include private health and dental schemes for individuals and their dependents, health screening and bikes to work scheme
*Support for continuous personal and professional development.
Our Culture
At SQW, we are committed to:
*Delivering positive social impact through our work
*Promoting diversity and inclusion
*Supporting employee wellbeing and development
*Achieving net zero by 2030
We also encourage staff engagement through volunteering, fundraising and charity initiatives.
How to Apply
*Closing date: 31 May 2026
*Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — early application is encouraged
*Please state your preferred office location
*Include details of your academic qualifications (degree and secondary school results – A levels, Highers or equivalent)
Minority ethnicities are under-represented within consulting. To create meaningful change for our clients, our people and our communities, we need diverse talent combined with diverse ways of working. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from candidates of any and all backgrounds.