Research Associate, Centre for Emerging Technology and Security

  • The Alan Turing Institute
  • Apr 13, 2026
Full time I.T. & Communications

Job Description

The Role

We are seeking to appoint a Research Associate to work within CETaS. The successful candidate will work across a range of research projects relating to emerging technology and national security, engaging with stakeholders across the UK government, academia and the private sector. They will gain experience in designing and delivering high-quality mixed-methods research for an external audience, and relationship building with senior national security decision-makers. They will contribute directly to high-profile impactful public research reports and will have the opportunity to represent the Turing at various stakeholder engagement activities, such as workshops, conferences and other events.

The successful candidate will be a highly motivated, inquisitive and collaborative researcher, who will work closely with researchers from CETaS and other research organisations. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in delivering research in the field of emerging technology and security. They will have experience of engaging with key decision-makers, and synthesising complex material in an accessible format for a non-expert policy audience.

While the position is based in our London office at the British Library, we offer flexible working arrangements with regard to hybrid working (working a blend of in-person vs remotely). The position is available full-time, but we are open to those seeking a four-day arrangement (80% FTE).

Eligibility for Security Check (SC) clearance is a requirement for this role. Eligibility criteria and further information on the process can be found on the UK Government security vetting website.

Your Profile

We want to hear from curious and analytically minded researchers with a strong interest in technology and security, ideally within a policy context. The ideal candidate will have experience in conducting rigorous research, including data driven, statistical, or other quantitative analysis, and will be confident applying academic research methodologies in practical settings.

Educated to degree level in a relevant field, or with equivalent experience, we are seeking someone who is building a track record of high quality research outputs, such as academic publications or policy reports. Strong communication skills are essential, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly to both specialist and non specialist audiences and a collaborative team player who works effectively across disciplines and organisational boundaries.

It is essential for individuals to be able to achieve UK Security Clearance (SC) once in post.

Main Duties
  • Develop, deliver and present high-quality academic research on topics related to emerging technology and national security
  • Articulate the findings and implications of this research to a non-expert policy audience, through various channels, both written and verbal
  • Review and quality control written outputs produced by other researchers, both at the Turing and externally
  • Co-organise CETaS events, such as workshops and conferences, to inform and showcase research findings
  • Support the work of policymakers, regulators and others by providing advice, attending workshops and giving presentations
Please see our portal for a full breakdown of the role.

Closing date for applications: Thursday 30 April at 23:59 (London, UK BST)

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early or to interview suitable candidates before the closing date if enough applications are received.

Term and Conditions

This full-time post is offered on a fixed term basis for 1 year, with the possibility of extension following the initial term. The annual salary range is £45,000-50,000 plus excellent benefits, including flexible working and family friendly policies, Employee-only benefits guide The Alan Turing Institute

Applicants must be based in the UK and be able to travel to the Turing offices in London when required.

The Alan Turing Institute is based at the British Library, in the heart of London s Knowledge Quarter. We expect staff to come to our office at least 4 days per month. Some roles may require more days in the office; the hiring manager will be able to confirm this during the interview.

Application Procedure

If you are interested in this opportunity, please click the apply button below. It will redirect you to The Alan Turing Institute jobs portal, where you can find more information and a full job description for this role. You will need to register on the applicant portal and complete the application form including your CV and covering letter.

If you have questions about the role or would like to apply using a different format, please email

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Alan Turing Institute is committed to creating an environment where diversity is valued and everyone is treated fairly.

We value diversity of background, experience, and perspective, and are proud to be an inclusive employer. We warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly from groups currently under-represented in our sector. If you feel passionate about this role but don t meet every single requirement, please apply - we recognise that great candidates may bring strengths beyond the criteria listed.

We are committed to making sure our recruitment process is accessible and inclusive. This includes making reasonable adjustments for candidates who have a disability or long-term condition.

Please contact us at to tell us how we can assist you.