Research Associate - Yorkshire and Humber Policy Innovation Partnerships

Contract Type:Fixed term under 31 December 2026

Are you an ambitious researcher looking for your next challenge? Do you have a background in data science and an interest in regional policy? Do you want to further your career in a leading UK research-intensive University?

This research fellow (RF) position will provide critically important research support for the cutting-edge Yorkshire and Humber ‘Local Policy Innovation Partnerships’ (YPIP) Phase-2 programme. Through the YPIP project, representatives of the region’s 12 universities will work with diverse policy-stakeholders to co-produce responses to urgent challenges of inclusive growth and sustainable living. There will be a special focus on bringing members of socially and economically marginalised and spatially isolated communities into the policy equation.

You will work with the Sheffield Y-PIP team to develop the Yorkshire Vitality Index and the Yorkshire Engagement Portal while assisting the whole team in implementing key YPIP activities, and co-author academic papers and policy analyses that explain and provide evidence for concepts being developed in the project.

What We Offer:

• 341 days annual leave (including closure days and Bank Holidays), with the possibility to purchase up to ten additional days. Up to 5 days of paid time off to cover emergency caring responsibilities.
• A commitment to work life balance including, flexible working opportunities and hybrid working where possible.
• A highly competitive pension scheme.
• Discounts at participating shops and cinemas, and a cycle to work scheme.
• A commitment to your development, with programmes, learning modules and mentoring schemes.
• An inclusive and diverse workplace.
• A commitment to your wellbeing, with confidential emotional support, support for those going through the menopause, experiencing fertility treatment and having a baby, paid leave for IVF treatment and more.

Further information can be found at https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits

We are keen to attract a diverse applicant pool. We encourage all potential candidates to reflect on their strengths and experience in the broadest sense, including transferable skills where appropriate, when considering their suitability for the position. Additionally, the panel will ensure that any career gaps due to caring responsibilities or illness are appropriately taken into consideration. In all cases, we will select the best candidate for the role

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

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