Lecture 19 - Other research careers

Question 1

What is the difference between research careers in universities and other research careers?

Answer 1

a PHD is not always a requirement

Question 2

Social research - public policy?

Answer 2

• social research = concerned with the design and delivery of social research projects
• research findings may be used to shape public policy or to examine the effectiveness of existing policy
• social research has a strong correlation with public policy
• public policy research = working for an organisation that is directly concerned with making or influencing public policy

Question 3

Social research - think tanks?

Answer 3

• think tanks are public policy research institutes
• think tanks will engage with politicians and other figures/organisations involved with public policy decision making
• aim to influence and inform public policy

Question 4

Third sector research?

Answer 4

• is another name for the charity sector
• research can form a core part of many charitable organisations and for some its their central focus
• many charitable organisations offer internship and placement programmes through which are good stepping stones into this career