Research Officer (Irregular Migration)

Could you be part of a team that shapes irregular migration policy? As a Research Officer you'll have a unique opportunity to influence decision-makers and see the impact of your work.

About us

The Science, Technology, Analysis and Research (STAR) Group ensures the best evidence and analysis are used to address the strategic issues facing the Home Office. As a Research Officer, you'll work in Home Office Analysis and Insight (HOAI), our analytical directorate. Based in the Immigration System Statistics and Refugee Analysis and Insights team (ISSRAI), this role includes a broad remit of work on irregular migration that's fast-paced, high-profile and interesting.

About the role

This is a chance to work on irregular migration and refugee resettlement, directly supporting the government's new Border Security Command. You will help to deliver the team's strategic research programme, which includes everything from analysis of irregular migration trends to the evaluation of high-profile programmes to tackle irregular migration and organised immigration crime.

Day-to-day, you'll carry out quantitative and qualitative research projects, which you'll design, conduct and evaluate. You'll produce a range of compelling narratives for senior analysts, officials, and ministers.

Research officers are expected to build and manage relationships with a range of stakeholders so interpersonal skills are key. You'll work closely with other teams, intelligence analysts, operational staff and academics to produce timely and relevant research. Whatever the subject or goal, you'll work with policy colleagues to ensure policy development is based on robust evidence. You may also manage a placement year student.

About you

To join us, you must hold a minimum of a 2.2 degree in a social science subject, around a third of which comprises modules on social science methods. Alternatively, you could be a badged Government Social Researcher (GSR) working in government, or an experienced Social Researcher with at least a 2.2 degree in any subject.

We're looking for strong applied experience and skills in designing and delivering research projects, analysing quantitative and qualitative data, reviewing literature, and presenting research findings. In short, you should be comfortable managing analytical projects from inception to conclusion. This includes communicating technical concepts to technical and non-technical staff and balancing a varied workload thanks to your adaptable working style. Flexible and quick to grasp ideas, you'll switch quickly between tasks.

Application process

With these qualifications there are two possible routes through for which you will be eligible - Route 1 or Route 2 (with or without GSR badge). For detailed guidance, please refer to the job description on

Closing date: 26 th March 2025.