Research Consultant

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. We have vacancies in our Manchester and Edinburgh offices (applications to our London office accepted by exception).

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 (Manchester, Edinburgh or London (by exception)

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.