UK Research Associate

UK Research Associate at PolicyEngine

Shaping the future of economic policy analysis

Location: UK-based (Remote, with preference for 1 day per week in London office)

Contract: Full-time, starting as early as possible through September 30, 2025, with the possibility of extension

About PolicyEngine

PolicyEngine is revolutionising public policy analysis through our free, open-source platform that enables anyone to compute the impact of policies at both personal and societal levels. We empower economists, researchers, journalists, advocates, policymakers, and legislators with tools to explore and understand policy implications.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate to join our UK team. This full-time role is crucial to expanding PolicyEngine's capabilities over the next year, particularly in enhancing our UK economic policy model and increasing its comprehensiveness, accuracy, and accessibility. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an innovative project that aims to revolutionise public policy analysis and drive positive societal change.

Key Responsibilities

• Expand the UK Tax-Benefit Rules Engine:

• Contribute to the development and implementation of new policy areas, including childcare subsidies and public services, within our Python-based microsimulation model.

• Training and Community Engagement:

• Assist in stakeholder engagement activities, including conducting user training sessions, workshops, and engagements to empower users and grow the PolicyEngine community.

• Policy Analysis:

• Contribute to the analysis of current and proposed policy reforms using PolicyEngine, providing insights to inform evidence-based policymaking.

• Local Area Disaggregation:

• Participate in creating microdatasets representative of each local authority and parliamentary constituency, enabling local-level policy impact analysis.

• Model Validation and Accuracy:

• Conduct rigorous validation of model outputs against external benchmarks.
• Assist in creating an open dashboard comparing PolicyEngine's outputs to other microsimulation models.

• Beta Testing and User Feedback:

• Participate in beta testing processes and incorporate user feedback to improve the platform.

• User-Centric Enhancements and AI Integration:

• Collaborate on user interface improvements, including AI integration, to enhance the platform's accessibility and usability.

• Documentation and Reporting:

• Assist in preparing comprehensive model documentation, reports, and academic publications to promote transparency and facilitate expert review.

Qualifications

• Educational Background:

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in economics, computer science, public policy, data science, or a related field.

• Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in Python, R, or similar programming languages.
• Familiarity with Git/GitHub and open-source development practices.
• Experience with quantitative analysis techniques and statistical modelling.
• Interest in AI/machine learning applications in policy analysis.
• Strong documentation skills.

• Knowledge and Interest:

• Strong interest in the UK tax and benefit system and public policy analysis.
• Understanding of microsimulation models and economic data analysis is a plus.

• Soft Skills:

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Why Join PolicyEngine?

• Impactful Work:

• Be part of a project that aims to democratise public policy analysis and contribute to better policy outcomes for all.

• Innovative Environment:

• Work with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies in economic modelling, data science, and AI integration.

• Professional Growth:

• Potential for professional growth and development within a rapidly expanding organisation.

• Collaborative Team:

• Work closely with developers, policy experts, consultants, and have the opportunity to interact with and learn from our expert advisory board.

• Flexible Work Arrangements:

• Remote working with the option for in-person collaboration in London.

Additional Information

PolicyEngine is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in the fields of economics and technology.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the role to jobs@policyengine.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Join us at PolicyEngine and be a part of transforming public policy analysis to drive positive societal change!