The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) is the UK’s leading independent thinktank. Our pioneering research and ideas have shaped progressive policy making for over three decades.

About the role

There is mounting evidence that children and young people today are facing a multifaceted and unprecedented set of challenges. Meeting this generational challenge requires more than policy tweaks - it demands a bold, imaginative new approach that can reestablish the relationship between the state and young people.

We are looking to recruit a Principal Research Fellow to play a pivotal role in creating an optimistic and compelling policy and narrative, setting out a New Deal for children and young people for our flagship programme “State of a Generation.”

In this role, you will design, fundraise for, lead and manage a significant research method programme, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, on budget and to the highest standard. A confident and influential communicator with strong media experience, you will represent IPPR at the highest levels across government, politics, business, academia, the voluntary sector and the media. You will also play a central role in developing and managing strategic relationships and influencing public policy.

About you

This is an exceptional opportunity for a creative and strategic policy thinker with a strong track record of high-quality published research and a commitment to building a fairer, more prosperous society.

You will bring:

Intellectual flair, innovative thinking and political insight
Significant experience in designing and delivering impactful high-quality research
Proven ability to build and manage strategic relationships
Strong stakeholder engagement skills
Excellent project, budget and people management capability
Fundraising experience and strong corporate planning skills
Confident media skills and a track record in performing for broadcast media.

This is a high-impact role at a pivotal moment for IPPR. The change of government creates a real opportunity to shape and create change for a fairer, more prosperous and sustainable future, working closely with the major political parties as they look ahead to the future. You will be central in positioning IPPR as a leading voice on the challenges and opportunities facing young people and setting out policy solutions.

Why join us?

This role is based in our London office, right in the heart of Westminster, placing you at the centre of UK policymaking and public affairs. We value the benefits of in-person collaboration and ask staff to spend at least 40 per cent of their working hours in the office. As part of our commitment to flexible working, we welcome applications from candidates seeking part-time hours, job-share arrangements, or other flexible options. We’re open to shaping the role around the right person, and all working patterns can be discussed at the interview stage.

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.

Ready to apply?

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

We'd be grateful if you could also complete our equality and diversity monitoring form

Closing date for applications: 10am on Monday 5 January

Interviews will take place in our London office on Tuesday 13 January

Status

18-month fixed term contract, full-time

Start date

ASAP

Salary

£57,128 to £70,524 per year, depending on experience, plus benefits

Closing date

Mon 5th Jan 2026 10:00am

Interview dates

Tuesday 13 January

Office

This position was originally posted by IPPR and has been curated by PurposePhil Career. To apply, please visit the original listing on the "apply" link on the side. We are not affiliated with the employer organization of this job ad or consultancy, and provide this curated listing as a service to our users.

Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR)

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