Principal Research Fellow & Head of Children and Young People

There is mounting evidence that children and young people today are facing a multifaceted and unprecedented set of challenges. Meeting this generational challenge requires more than policy tweaks - it demands a bold, imaginative new approach that can reestablish the relationship between the state and young people. 

We are looking to recruit a Principal Research Fellow to play a pivotal role in creating an optimistic and compelling policy and narrative, setting out a New Deal for children and young people for our flagship programme “State of a Generation.”

In this role, you will design, fundraise for, lead and manage a significant research method programme, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, on budget and to the highest standard. A confident and influential communicator with strong media experience, you will represent IPPR at the highest levels across government, politics, business, academia, the voluntary sector and the media. You will also play a central role in developing and managing strategic relationships and influencing public policy.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a creative and strategic policy thinker with a strong track record of high-quality published research and a commitment to building a fairer, more prosperous society.

You will bring:

• Intellectual flair, innovative thinking and political insight
• Significant experience in designing and delivering impactful high-quality research
• Proven ability to build and manage strategic relationships
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills
• Excellent project, budget and people management capability
• Fundraising experience and strong corporate planning skills
• Confident media skills and a track record in performing for broadcast media.

This is a high-impact role at a pivotal moment for IPPR. The change of government creates a real opportunity to shape and create change for a fairer, more prosperous and sustainable future, working closely with the major political parties as they look ahead to the future. You will be central in positioning IPPR as a leading voice on the challenges and opportunities facing young people and setting out policy solutions.

This role is based in our London office, right in the heart of Westminster, placing you at the centre of UK policymaking and public affairs. We value the benefits of in-person collaboration and ask staff to spend at least 40 per cent of their working hours in the office. As part of our commitment to flexible working, we welcome applications from candidates seeking part-time hours, job-share arrangements, or other flexible options. We’re open to shaping the role around the right person, and all working patterns can be discussed at the interview stage.

IPPR is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community, and from applicants with a range of professional and lived experiences. As an organisation engaging in critical debate about a wide range of progressive policy issues, we value the creativity and range of perspectives that a diverse team can provide.

For further information and full details on how to apply, please download the information pack here.

We’d be grateful if you could also complete our equality and diversity monitoring form

Closing date for applications is midday on Thursday 18 December

Interviews will take place in our London office on Tuesday 6 January