Political Researcher
Research policy and politics for MPs, think tanks, parties or media.
This UK political researcher career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £24,000 - £30,000
- Mid-career salary
- £32,000 - £45,000
- Senior salary
- £55,000 - £80,000
- Work environment
- Office, community or institutional setting
- Time to entry
- 1 - 3 years
- Degree required
- Usually required
- Category
- Public Sector and Emergency Services
What a Political Researcher does
Research policy and politics for MPs, think tanks, parties or media.
How to become a Political Researcher
- Look up Political Researcher roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Political Researcher - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Research
- Writing
- Policy knowledge
- Networks
- Briefing skills