Research & Analysis Jobs & Graduate Schemes

Working in Research & analysis

Research & Analysis includes many different fields. On the Research side, there is scientific research and sociological research, which share many of the same characteristics and require similar skills, though the educational requirements differ. Graduates pursuing sociological research will most likely need a Masters degree, while candidates for scientific research will need a relevant thesis or PhD. The Analysis side can include positions in business, security, advertising, marketing and even sports. These roles require diligent, efficient and intelligent applicants.

Whatever the specific field, Research & Analysis offers many excellent careers paths for graduates.

How to Get a Job in Research & Analysis

Many of the requirements for working in Research & Analysis depend on the specific field. Some of the specialised skills include:

1. Academic qualifications

Careers in Analysis will likely require a relevant degree done to a high standard, while careers in Research often have stricter requirements, and candidates may need an MSc or PhD to be considered. In both fields, academic achievement is highly valued, as is specialisation.

2. Analytical skills

Positions in this sector can include scientific analysis, such as taking samples, monitoring natural animal statistics and conducting field work. These roles are highly competitive, and graduates should demonstrate a real passion for the work as well as finely-honed analytical and evaluative skills.

3. Research skills

This sector includes many sociological research positions, which can include working in government policy and think tank research. These fields offer excellent options for graduates with degrees in Politics, Economics or History, as the research methodologies learned in these studies are directly relevant to the work at hand.

Sociological research can be highly competitive, and many of the roles require a Masters degree or MRes. Candidates should draw on the skills learned during their degrees for their applications, as academic prowess can be the most important factor for these roles.

4. Computer proficiency

Among other types of research and analysis, this sector includes business and security analysis, which requires candidates to have meticulous research methods and specialised knowledge. In these fields, proficiency with computer systems used to manage large amounts of data can really set a graduate ahead. Computer programmes such as Microsoft Access and Oracle are vital to any analyst's success, and graduates should make sure to highlight any experience with these programmes. In-depth knowledge can be learned from degrees in IT or Computer Science.

5. An understanding of market research, merchandising and buying

Market research, merchandising and buying are all parts of the Research & Analysis sector which cross over with Retail and Buying & Merchandising. These fields require candidates to be on trend and up to date with the latest fashions in order to predict what will sell. Much of the work in these fields involves looking at figures and forecasting future buying patterns.

6. Diligence and accuracy

Diligence and accuracy are vital to every role in Research & Analysis. There can be a lot of money at stake in this sector, and candidates must possess a meticulous attention to detail and the ability to write precise reports. Candidates can show these skills through precision in their applications, as well as any work spent editing a student paper or proofreading the work of other students.