Assistant Researcher (Economist Track)

Do you believe the economy can be changed to serve people and planet? Are you passionate about bold ideas, economic justice and sustainability? Do you want to kickstart your career in economic research and policy? If so, we d love to hear from you.

For 40 years, NEF has turned big ideas, rigorous research and community power into real-world change. At this critical moment in politics, we re looking for an Assistant Researcher (Economist track) to join our economy and environment team.

Working with a talented group of economists and researchers, you will contribute to high-quality research and policy development across areas such as macroeconomics, finance, labour markets, energy, transport and local economies. You ll help create datasets, draft reports and blogs, support fundraising bids, and translate complex ideas into clear, accessible insights that shape public debate. You ll also play a role in project delivery, administration and building networks across politics, academia, civil society and business.

We re looking for someone with a degree (or equivalent experience) in economics or a related field, strong research and data skills, and the ability to write clearly for different audiences. Some coding or statistical software experience (Stata, R, Python) would be an advantage. Just as important is curiosity, creativity, good organisation, and a commitment to building a fairer, greener economy.

Hours of work: Full Time (32 hours per week under NEF s Shorter Working Week)
Salary range: £37,149 - £41,377
Location: London/South East (in-office min two days per week)
Contract type: Permanent

How to apply

Deadline for applications: midday, 17th September 2025
Interviews: w/c 29th September
Start date: ASAP

To apply, please send your CV and responses (in Word format) to the following three questions:

1. Tell us about one economic policy area in the UK that you re most interested in, and why it matters right now (200 words max).
2. Share one dataset you ve worked with (academic, work, or self-initiated). What question did you investigate and explain your methodology? (250 words max).
3. Pick a recent economics headline and explain it in plain language, as if writing for a blog post (200 words max).

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.

NEF is committed to equal opportunities, and we particularly welcome applications from people under-represented in research and policy including Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates; disabled people; LGBTQIA candidates; people with mental health conditions; and those from working class backgrounds. We also strongly encourage applications from anyone who is prepared to learn and grow on the job, and stress that past think tank experience is not required.

As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.