We are thrilled to invite applications for our popular 12 month research apprenticeship scheme which provides a unique career development opportunity to obtain first-hand experience of policy relevant research in Wales.
With previous graduates of the scheme now studying for PhDs, working for local or national governments or progressed to research posts within the Centre, the initiative is an excellent foundation for progression to a career in a think tank, national or local government, the voluntary sector or academic research.
We are seeking an outstanding graduate who can bridge the worlds of research and policy and is committed to producing high quality, policy relevant research and analysis.
The successful candidate will work at the heart of current policy debates, particularly across our three priority areas of Tackling Inequalities, Environment and Net Zero and Community Wellbeing. They will also conduct research on the use of evidence in policy-making and practices of knowledge mobilisation.
The research apprentice will:
i) Support our work with Welsh Government/Public Services to directly address the evidence needs of Welsh Government ministers and local authorities by synthesising existing evidence
ii) Conduct primary research on evidence use/knowledge mobilisation practices as part of the Centre’s academic research team.
The WCPP apprentice will work alongside experienced researchers in the Centre and with leading academics, senior policymakers, and/or public service leaders across a range of projects.
In addition to mentoring by senior staff, you will benefit from the opportunity of two work placements inside government, research organisations, and/or think tanks in Wales and other parts of the UK.
As part of the application process, applicants are asked to answer the following question (max 300 words) at the start of their supporting statement.
The Wales Centre for Public Policy (WCPP) provides evidence to enable Welsh Government, local authorities, health boards, and other public bodies in Wales to make evidence-informed policy decisions and improve public services. Choose a policy area you have demonstrable experience with and explain whether it relates to WCPP’s priority areas. Then outline your approach to how you would synthesise the evidence to answer a challenging question in this policy area. Finally, highlight the key factors which need to be considered about the quality of this evidence to ensure it is sufficiently robust to help Welsh policy makers.
For further information, please see this blog which takes stock of the Apprenticeship scheme and this article which discusses the early experience.
The Centre offers a stimulating and supportive working environment and the successful candidate will have access to the wealth of training opportunities provided by Cardiff University. We support hybrid working and other flexible working arrangements but expect staff to work from our offices in the purpose-built Social Science Research Park (SPARK) located on Cardiff University’s £300 million Innovation Campus at least two days per week.
The post is full-time (35 hours per week), one-year appointment from April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Salary: £33,951 - £36,636 per annum (Grade 5)
CLICK HERE for full job specification and to apply.