Government Social Research Fast Stream 2027

On the Government Social Research (GSR) Fast Stream, youll work on the issues that really matter.

Government Social Research is the analytical profession that provides social and behavioural research and advice to the government. Our researchers enable the government to understand issues relating to society, groups and individuals; supporting policy debate and decision making through a variety of approaches, advice and evidence.

The specific towns and cities depend on the department you are posted to and its office locations. The Fast Stream evolves continually, so postings can vary from year to year.

As an indication, in 2026 new fast streamers were posted to government offices in the following regions: Greater London, Wales, and West Midlands.

On occasion, some individuals may need to move location. We aim to align postings with your preferences whenever possible; however, final decisions must support our wider business needs. Please note that Fast Streamers cannot choose their department or their specific role.

GSR members come from a wide range of professional backgrounds and disciplines, covering the breadth of social and behavioural sciences. Our work puts people at the heart of government decision making by providing expertise and interventions to solve complex problems. GSR takes a scientific and tailored approach supported by bodies of knowledge and a range of research methods to inform, influence and provide robust and defensible decision-making at all levels.

We aim to deliver the best social science evidence for the government and we need highly skilled social and behavioural scientists to do that. You can read more about our strategy and commitment to diversity and inclusion in our strategies.

You must be eligible to work in the UK

You can apply through either one of the following routes:

1) Qualification route. You need to have or be on track to receive, a minimum of a 2:1 in your undergraduate degree, or a 2:2 with a postgraduate degree.

A qualifying degree is one which contains substantial social research methods training (comprising one third of modules taken in the course) including quantitative research methods including research design, data collection (i.e., questionnaire design, sampling, weighting) and data analysis (e.g., statistical analysis) and at least three of the following: systematic/literature reviews; qualitative methods; interpretation of data and presentation of results; study design and hypothesis testing; and application of ethics to research.

2) Experience route. You need to have or be on track to receive an undergraduate degree at a minimum of 2:1, or 2:2 with a postgraduate degree, in any subject, or a degree equivalent (e.g. an advanced Certificate or Diploma from MRS), plus have at least 4 years social research practice experience. Social research practice experience consists of experience working in a research agency, market research agency or specialist research team. You must make explicit the breadth and depth of your research experience and skills. Your experience must include quantitative research methods and three of the following: systematic/literature reviews; qualitative methods; interpretation of data and presentation of results; study design, hypothesis testing and application of ethics to research.