Research Associate

Posted by: Ofqual

Employed By: Ofqual

Job Title: Research Associate

Salary:£42983 - £52012

Contract: Full-time

Location: Coventry

Reference: 482736

Application Deadline: 11:55 pm on Wednesday 7th October 2026

Ofqual is the independent qualifications regulator for England. We currently regulate 200+ awarding organisations and approx. 11,600 certified qualifications. These include GCSEs, AS and A levels, and a broad range of vocational and technical qualifications.

For more information about what we do please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ofqual

We are looking to recruit a high calibre Research Associate to our Standards Unit. The Standards Unit contributes to Ofqual’s statutory objective to secure qualification standards by conducting research and analysis on the design, development and delivery of qualifications In England.

Research and data underpin everything we do. Using innovative and critical approaches to analysis, we address complex questions that inform regulatory decision-making and reinforce our reputation as a credible authority. Our work has a direct impact on education, helping to ensure standards are appropriately assessed and maintained across national academic and vocational qualifications.

The postholder will use their strong mathematical skills, experience of working with large data sets, and interest in the innovative use of data, to solve complex problems related to the design, development and delivery of assessments. They will generate insights that will inform national policy and support public confidence in qualifications.

The role offers the opportunity to tackle complex statistical challenges, collaborate with leading assessment experts, and contribute to research with real societal impact. Although a background in assessment is desirable, it is not needed, because training and opportunities for developing expertise in assessment will be provided.