Government Social Research Fast Stream

Wide

Expected closing date: Thursday, 5 November 2026

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TL;DR

Key Takeaways

Undertake a 3.5-year scheme as a Government Social Researcher, conducting research and advising on social and behavioural issues.
Postings vary across government departments, with previous locations including Greater London, Wales, and West Midlands.
Earn between £45,000 and £55,000 per year upon successful completion of the scheme.
Requires a minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or 2:2 with a postgraduate degree) with substantial social research methods training, or 4 years of relevant research experience.

This is a 3.5-year scheme for aspiring Government Social Researchers.

Work on issues that matter to the government and society.
Conduct social and behavioural research and provide advice to the government.
Understand societal issues, groups, and individuals to support policy debate and decision-making.
Contribute to identifying, investigating, and reporting social trends.
Develop government policy and monitor/evaluate policy impact on public services.
Develop social research skills, including quantitative and qualitative methods.
Contribute to evidence-based decision-making and policy evaluation.
Work across various government departments, undertaking a broad range of tasks.
Develop professional and leadership experience as a social researcher.
Tasks may include developing surveys, analysing data, producing statistics, and reviewing existing research.
Provide briefings for policy colleagues and ministers.

Postings can vary by department and office location. Previous postings have included: Greater London, Wales, and West Midlands.
Individuals may need to move location; postings are aligned with preferences where possible but must support business needs.
Fast Streamers cannot choose their department or specific role.

Upon promotion and successful completion of the scheme, earnings will be between £45,000 and £55,000 per year.

Eligibility: Must be eligible to work in the UK.
Qualification Route: A minimum of a 2:1 in an undergraduate degree, or a 2:2 with a postgraduate degree. The degree must contain substantial social research methods training (one third of modules), including quantitative research methods and at least three of the following: systematic/literature reviews; qualitative methods; interpretation of data and presentation of results; study design and hypothesis testing; and application of ethics to research.
Experience Route: An undergraduate degree at a minimum of 2:1, or 2:2 with a postgraduate degree, in any subject, or an equivalent qualification (e.g. advanced Certificate or Diploma from MRS), plus at least 4 years of social research practice experience. This experience must include quantitative research methods and three of the following: systematic/literature reviews; qualitative methods; interpretation of data and presentation of results; study design, hypothesis testing and application of ethics to research.

Undertake a specific Learning and Development Curriculum to develop leadership skills and understanding of the UK Civil Service.
Develop professional social research skills and knowledge through on-the-job learning.
Access social research-specific technical training, seminars, and other courses.