Principal Research Fellow Health Policy

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) is the UK's leading independent thinktank. Our research and ideas have shaped progressive policy making for more than three decades. From making the early case for the minimum wage and taking regional inequality to the top of the political agenda, to proposing a windfall tax on energy companies, our research and policy work has put forward practical solutions for the crises facing society - to enable justice, progress and change.

18-month fixed term contract, 37.5 hours a week

About the role

The recent conclusion of our Commission on Health and Prosperity was not just highly influential with the government, but also mainstreamed the idea that one of the key issues holding our economy back, is the poor health of the nation. At this exciting moment in British politics, and following the Commission's successful conclusion, we are looking to recruit a talented and experienced researcher to lead on developing a new programme of work on health policy within our public services team.

You will be responsible for designing, fundraising for, leading and managing a significant research method programme, ensuring all projects are completed on time, to budget and to a high standard. A proficient communicator with a wide-ranging media-record, you'll represent the team at the highest levels of government, politics, business, academia, the voluntary sector and the media and play a crucial role in developing and managing strategic relationships and influencing public policy.

About you

This is an ideal role for a creative, strategic practitioner with a track record of high-quality published research, looking to make the case and craft policy for a prosperous and just society. You will combine intellectual flair, innovative thinking, strategic stakeholder engagement and political insight with the ability to deliver impactful and high-quality research. Responsibilities will be broad, and excellent project, budget, and people management, fundraising and corporate planning and media skills are essential.

This is a vital role at IPPR over the coming months to position the institute as a leader in health policy debates and research. The change of government provides the successful candidate with a real opportunity to shape and create change for a fairer, more prosperous and sustainable future, working closely with the major political parties in the UK.

IPPR is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community, and from applicants with a range of professional and lived experiences. As an organisation engaging in critical debate about a wide range of progressive policy issues, we value the creativity and range of perspectives that a diverse team can provide.

This post will be based in our London office, right at the heart of Westminster, with staff expected to be in the office at least two days a week. As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant to fill the post. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

How to apply

For further information and details on how to apply, please download the information pack.

Please send your CV and a two-page supporting statement as one document (in PDF format) to .

Your statement should outline under separate headings why you want the role and how your knowledge, skills and experience meet the person specification in the job description.

We'd be grateful if you complete the equality and diversity monitoring form .

Please contact us at if you need any help or adjustments to apply for this role or the application materials to be sent to you in a different format.

Closing date for applications: 25 November 2024.

Interviews will take place in our London office on Friday 6 December.