SSCR Impact & Policy Associate

Department

The NIHR School for Social Care Research (SSCR) is a partnership of leading centres of academic social care research at seven universities, led by the University of York. The role is situated in the OSCAR research group, within the School for Business and Society. With a budget of around £40 million, SSCR develops evidence to improve adult social care policy and practice in England.

We are seeking a Policy and Impact and Policy Associate to help ensure SSCR research is accessible, used and able to demonstrate real-world influence. The post is fixed term until 30 April 2029, with on-site working expected around two days per week.

Role

Working with the SSCR Director, Programme Manager, Executive Group, funded researchers and member institutions, you will:

• lead defined policy and impact projects, including rapid evidence reviews and policy analysis;
• produce accessible briefings, policy reports and presentations;
• support responses to requests from DHSC, NIHR and other stakeholders;
• support implementation of the SSCR impact strategy and reporting framework, providing guidance on impact planning, evidencing and delivery;
• support impact funding calls and contribute to annual reporting and funder returns;
• develop relationships with policy and sector stakeholders to help SSCR research inform policy and practice; and
• contribute to collaborative working, stakeholder events and promotional or educational materials.

This is an excellent opportunity for an applied researcher or policy professional seeking to develop a career at the interface of research, policy, practice and impact in adult social care.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

An undergraduate degree in a social science or related subject and a relevant PhD, or equivalent substantial professional experience in evidence synthesis, policy research, knowledge mobilisation or research impact at a national organisation.

An understanding of the adult social care sector and policy landscape in England, evidence synthesis, critical appraisal and policy analysis, and how research can inform policy and practice. You will have experience of evidence reviews or policy analysis, producing policy- or practice-facing outputs, engaging stakeholders, and supporting research impact or knowledge mobilisation.

The ability to appraise and synthesise complex evidence rapidly and accurately, communicate clearly, write and present for different audiences, build trusted relationships, and manage several priorities to deadline. A collaborative approach, attention to detail and commitment to high-quality work are essential.

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Yvonne Birks (y.birks@york.ac.uk