Government Social Research

About Government Social Research

Want to understand how people behave and react? Join Government Social Research

Ever wondered what influences people's decisions, what communities really need, or how government policies affect real lives? At Government Social Research (GSR), we're the professional body for social researchers in the Civil Service and we turn curiosity about society into evidence that shapes policies affecting millions of people across the UK.

With over 2,400 members working across more than 30 government departments, we're not just collecting and analysing data – we're uncovering the stories behind the evidence and helping government understand what really works for different communities.

What does a government social researcher actually do?

Picture yourself designing surveys that capture what entire populations think, running focus groups that dive deep into people's experiences, or analysing data that reveals otherwise hidden patterns in how society functions. You might be evaluating whether a new policy is actually helping people find jobs, researching what makes communities feel safer, or investigating why some educational programmes succeed whilst others don't.

How to work for us

There are three main pathways into the profession, depending on your level of experience and qualification.

For undergraduate students:

Sandwich placements (up to a year): Our sandwich placement scheme is perfect if you're in your penultimate year of university and want to experience government research firsthand. You'll work alongside experienced social researchers and policy officials, getting involved in real projects that matter whilst earning a salary. The best part? Successful placement students can get a priority interview for a permanent graduate role when you finish your degree. It's not just work experience – it's your gateway into a research career that makes a genuine difference.

For those without a degree:

Degree apprenticeship programme (usually four years): If you're naturally curious about why people behave the way they do or want to understand the "how" and "why" behind social issues, you could be perfect for a career in social research. Our degree apprenticeship programme offers a fee-free Applied Social Research degree from the University of Kent alongside working in a government department. This scheme allows you to earn whilst you learn. No research experience is necessary, just a desire to learn!

For social science graduates:

Research Officer Graduate Scheme: As a Civil Service Research Officer, you'll dig into what's really happening in society, help craft policies that matter, and measure their real-world impact on public services. You could be designing surveys that capture the public mood, crunching numbers that reveal otherwise hidden trends, or briefing ministers on breakthrough research. Working alongside brilliant analysts across government, you'll turn complex data into clear insights that help shape decisions affecting millions of lives. There is also the GSR Scheme which is part of the Civil Service Fast Stream programme.

Why work for us?

• Real-world impact: your research directly influences government decisions that improve people's lives
• Diverse experience: our researchers work across departments from the Ministry of Justice to the Department for Work and Pensions
• Locations nationwide: opportunities from Birmingham and Manchester to London and Edinburgh
• Transferable skills: learn cutting-edge research methods, data analysis, and coding skills that are highly demanded
• Flexible working: we understand the importance of work-life balance
• 25 days holiday plus public holidays: because time to recharge is essential
• Inclusive environment: we celebrate diverse perspectives because they make our research better
• Professional development: join a community of over 2,400 researchers with ongoing training, learning and networking

What our researchers say:

"I chose a sandwich placement in government because I was looking to get analytical experience while working on super interesting and topical projects. I liked that you are given so much responsibility and that there are opportunities to undertake training in a wide range of analytical techniques." Rebecca, Sandwich Placement Student, Home Office

“I was surprised with how much trust I have been given in my role at work so soon. My team have supported me to get involved in projects and provide my insight into our work, and I'm so happy to be able to contribute so early on.” Helena, Social Research Degree Apprentice, Ministry of Justice

Ready to turn your interest in people and society into career-changing research?