National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER)
Researcher (secondary mathematics)
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Shape the future: join us as a Researcher (Secondary Mathematics) at NFER
Are you passionate about secondary mathematics and excited by the challenge of creating engaging mathematical problems and real-world contexts? We're seeking an enthusiastic Researcher (secondary mathematics) to join our team and contribute to impactful assessment projects in the UK and internationally. Using your mathematical expertise, creativity and understanding of how students learn, you’ll help develop high-quality assessment questions and tasks for secondary learners. With a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to work with a globally respected charity, this is your chance to make a lasting difference.
Salary: £37,000–£41,000 per annum (non-negotiable)
Annual Leave: Enjoy 42 days off each year: 30 days' annual leave, 4 paid closure days and 8 bank holidays
Pension Contributions: 10% employer contributions
Family Support: Enhanced maternity/parental leave and paid compassionate leave
Flexible Working: Hybrid setup with a minimum of 1 day a month in our office at The Mere, Upton, with easy access to Windsor, Maidenhead, Reading, the Elizabeth Line and the M4. Full-time (35 hours)
Job Description
As a Researcher (Secondary Mathematics), you’ll play a pivotal role in writing content (questions and tasks) for paper-based and computer-based assessments by creating engaging, authentic and accessible real-world contexts that allow students to apply mathematical knowledge and problem-solving skills in meaningful situations. You’ll focus on interpreting statistical analyses of assessment data and assisting in conducting and analysing quantitative / qualitative research.
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Key Responsibilities
- Generating creative ideas for assessments that effectively assess mathematical understanding while maintaining student engagement.
- Contribute to the creation of high-quality assessment content that meets commissioner and NFER requirements.
- Producing assessment content primarily for secondary mathematics and, occasionally, primary mathematics.
- Checking and refining assessment materials to ensure accuracy, clarity, consistency and fitness for purpose.
- Contribute to high-quality bids and proposal preparation for a range of international and UK clients.
This role will involve occasional visits to schools and some international travel, as and when required.
Person Specification
Essential Skills And Experience
- Degree in mathematics*
- Experience of teaching mathematics in schools (or in FE) to at least higher GCSE level.
- Good knowledge of mathematics and an understanding of students’ different abilities in the subject, including the challenges.
- Experience of writing clearly and accurately for different purposes and audiences.
- Ability to develop creative contexts for mathematics items.
- Ability to understand a range of different mathematics curricula and to apply this insight in item development.
- Knowledge of the basic principles of project management.
- We would consider a related subject, such as physics, if it is combined with experience of teaching mathematics up to at least higher GCSE.
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Other roles you may have experience of include: maths teacher or maths SEN Tutor.
Why NFER?
At NFER, we are recognised internationally for our expertise in educational assessment, delivering high-quality assessment solutions for education systems around the world. By joining us, you'll contribute to projects that have a real impact on teaching, learning and educational outcomes, working for an organisation that prioritises impact over profit. You'll be part of a collaborative, flexible and inclusive environment where professional development is actively supported.
What We Offer
- A supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
- Opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career.
- Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance from day 1.
- The chance to make a real difference in the education sector.
Application Process
We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and encourage you to apply early. Shortlisting will commence from 10 August 2026.
We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process. If you require any adjustments, alternative document formats or accommodations at any stage, please do not hesitate to contact us at HR@nfer.ac.uk. Further details can also be found in the Job Information Pack.
If you’re ready to bring your skills and passion to a role that makes a difference, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and start your journey with NFER.
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