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Careers in Government Social Research

Careers in Government Social Research

Three social researchers

Research Officer Graduate Scheme Social Research Degree Apprenticeship Student Sandwich Placements Social Research Fast Stream

Ever wondered what influences people's decisions, what communities really need, or how government policies affect real lives? At Government Social Research (GSR), we're the professional body for social researchers in the Civil Service. We turn curiosity about society into evidence that shapes policies affecting millions of people across the UK. 

What could you be working on?

With over 2,600 members working across more than 60 government departments, we're not just collecting and analysing data, we're uncovering the stories behind the evidence and helping government understand what really works for different communities. 

Picture yourself designing surveys that capture what entire populations think, running focus groups that dive deep into people's experiences, or analysing data that reveals otherwise hidden patterns in how society functions. You might be evaluating whether a new policy is helping people find jobs, researching what makes communities feel safer, or investigating why some educational programmes succeed whilst others don't. 

Why work for us?

Real responsibility: from day one you'll be contributing to research that matters
Diverse experience: our social researchers work across the entire span of government, and can be found working in departments from the Office for National Statistics to the Food Standards Agency
Locations across the UK
Flexible working: we understand that work-life balance matters  
25 days holiday plus public holidays: because everyone needs downtime
Inclusive environment: we celebrate diverse perspectives because they make our analysis better
Professional development: join a community of over 2,600 social researchers with ongoing training, learning and networking

How to join Government Social Research

If you are interested in a career in Government Social Research, there are several ways you can join our profession. We run annual recruitment schemes for people at different stages of their career journey, from school leavers to graduates. Here is an overview of the schemes we run: 

For social research undergraduate students

Sandwich placements (up to a year): Our sandwich placement scheme is perfect if you're in your penultimate year of university and want to experience government research firsthand. You'll work alongside experienced social researchers and policy officials, getting involved in real projects that matter whilst earning a salary. The best part? Successful placement students can get an early access interview for a permanent role after graduating.

For social research graduates

Research Officer Graduate Scheme:  As a Civil Service Research Officer, you'll dig into what's really happening in society, help craft policies that matter, and measure their real-world impact on public services. You could be designing surveys that capture the public mood, crunching numbers that reveal otherwise hidden trends, or briefing ministers on breakthrough research.

There is also the Government Social Research Scheme which is part of the Civil Service Fast Stream programme.   

For those without a degree

Degree apprenticeship programme (usually four years): If you're naturally curious about why people behave the way they do or want to understand the "how" and "why" behind social issues, you could be perfect for a career in social research. Our degree apprenticeship programme offers a fee-free Applied Social Research degree from the University of Kent alongside working in a government department. This scheme allows you to earn whilst you learn. No research experience is necessary, just a desire to learn! 

Hear from our social researchers

Diversity, inclusion and community

At Government Social Research (GSR), we believe that diverse perspectives lead to stronger analysis and better outcomes for the communities we serve. We are committed to building a more inclusive and representative profession. One that reflects the society we work for, while upholding the Civil Service values of integrity, honesty, objectivity and impartiality.

We recognise our responsibility to attract talent from all backgrounds. We actively work to remove barriers so that your background is never a limitation. We value the unique experiences and viewpoints that individuals bring, knowing they enrich policymaking and improve public service delivery.

One of the great benefits of working for GSR is our range of professional networks. As part of our community of over 2,600 social researchers, these networks offer a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing and professional development. They are also an excellent way to expand your professional horizons and connect with like-minded colleagues who share your interests and experiences. 

Our networks prioritise inclusion and were set up to ensure diverse communities are represented within the economics profession and include:

The Junior Social Researchers Network
Black Analyst Forum
Analysts Wales Network
Early Careers Network
GSR University Placement Student Network

Beyond these networks, you will have access to our comprehensive range of learning and development programmes, designed to help you develop your career in government. From lunchtime seminars and weekly newsletters to annual conferences and ongoing continuous professional development opportunities, you will be joining an inclusive community of learning where different views, backgrounds and experiences are genuinely welcomed.

We are committed to supporting careers across the UK, with opportunities available in locations from London to Edinburgh, Birmingham to Cardiff. This reflects our belief that excellent social researchers can be found everywhere, and that diverse geographic representation strengthens our profession.

If you have any questions about our recruitment schemes, you can contact us on gesrrecruitment@hmtreasury.gov.uk. You can also keep up-to-date with Government Social Research news and updates by following us on social media.

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