Principal Economist or Researcher (Fixed Term – 15 months)

The Resolution Foundation is looking for a thoughtful and committed individual to lead our work on tax policy and analysis. This is an exciting time to join the team as we work to keep living standards at the top of the policy agenda, build on the success of our Economy 2030 Inquiry, and set new priorities under our new CEO.

What does the role involve?

Working at the heart of the Foundation’s research and policy team and in collaboration with external partners, the post holder will design and deliver an ambitious programme of research and policy work on tax policy. This will range from informing and influencing public debates over the size of overall tax burden, to analysis of the distributional consequences of personal and indirect tax changes, to policy work on the appropriate ways to tax (for example), housing, the very wealthy, or motoring. Applicants will contribute to our high-profile work in the run-up to and immediately after fiscal events, undertake reactive work in response to emerging public policy debates, and propose and undertake longer-term research and policy work relating to the tax system in the UK, The post holder will also work as a flexible member of our research team, getting involved in other areas of the Foundation’s work.

What kind of person are we looking for?

The role would suit an individual with the ability to conduct economic and policy analysis independently at an advanced level. This would be consistent with the skills obtained from significant experience working in government, think tanks or applied academic research, along with university-level training in associated disciplines (or equivalent experience gained in another context). Formal training or qualifications in economics are not a prerequisite, but a degree of economic literacy is essential for this job (so as to be able to participate in policy debates about tax policy). Candidates will need strong numeracy skills, and will be expected to use Excel for data manipulation, and to work with household survey micro-data using appropriate statistical software.

The successful candidate will have a detailed knowledge of issues in tax policy, the skills to situate research findings in the policy context, and the ability to communicate the results to a wide range of stakeholders, verbally and in writing. A proven track record for delivering research impact or policy change is also essential.

We are a fast-paced organisation so the capability to work at pace on several different projects is essential. The ideal candidate will also be able to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders from academia, government, industry and the broader research community.

For more information about the role, including how to apply, please download the application pack.

Closing date: 08:59am on Friday 19 September 2025

First Interviews: w/c 6 October 2025 | Second Interviews: w/c 13 October 2025