Associate Insights & Strategy Researcher

We are looking for a curious, analytical and motivated Associate Insights & Strategy Researcher to join our team at Cambridge Design Partnership (CDP).

Our Insights & Strategy team delivers research that helps clients understand user needs, explore market opportunities and make informed decisions about innovation and product development.

As an Associate, you will be a core member of multidisciplinary project teams, working alongside experienced researchers and strategists to deliver high-quality research and actionable insights. You will be actively involved in research delivery, data analysis and the development of client reports and presentations.

The role will span both consumer and healthcare sectors. We are looking for someone who brings experience of consumer-focused research and is enthusiastic about applying their skills to new challenges, particularly within healthcare and medical technology.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Research and data collection

• Support the delivery of qualitative and quantitative research, working alongside experienced researchers.
• Contribute to the preparation of research materials, including interview guides, questionnaires and other research tools.
• Participate in primary research activities, including interviews, focus groups, observational research and workshops.
• Conduct secondary research into markets, competitors, technologies, trends and user needs.

Analysis and reporting

• Analyse qualitative and quantitative data to identify key themes, patterns, unmet needs and opportunities.
• Synthesise findings from multiple sources to develop clear, evidence-based insights.
• Draft high-quality reports, presentations and other client deliverables, communicating findings clearly and effectively.
• Work with senior colleagues to refine findings and develop recommendations for clients.
• Develop strategic thinking skills by working alongside experienced colleagues to understand the implications of research findings and how to translate insights into actionable recommendations for clients.

Project delivery and collaboration

• Act as a core member of multidisciplinary project teams, taking ownership of assigned activities and outputs.
• Contribute to internal project discussions and client meetings, presenting findings where appropriate.
• Manage assigned tasks across multiple projects, delivering work to agreed timelines and quality standards.
• Support proposals and new business opportunities through background research and preparation of materials.

Requirements

Essential

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to interpret research findings and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Practical experience of consumer-focused research, gained through a research agency, consultancy, in-house insights team or similar environment.
• Understanding of qualitative and/or quantitative research methods and experience applying them.
• Ability to synthesise complex information and communicate findings through clear, well-structured reports and presentations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• A proactive, collaborative approach, with enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills.
• A genuine interest in broadening research experience into healthcare and medical technology.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly PowerPoint and Excel.

Desirable

• Experience conducting or supporting primary research, such as interviews, surveys or observational research.
• Experience working across different consumer markets or product categories.
• Exposure to healthcare, medical technology or other regulated sectors.
• An interest in developing strategic and commercial thinking alongside research expertise.

Experience and Education

• A degree or equivalent experience in a relevant discipline, such as social sciences, psychology, business, marketing, design or science.
• Typically 1–3 years of relevant professional experience in research, insights or a related field, including experience within the consumer sector.
• Demonstrable experience analysing research findings and contributing to reports or presentations.

Benefits

Cambridge Design Partnership (CDP) is an end-to-end innovation partner, propelling global brands and ambitious start-ups to success. We build breakthrough products and services – from insight to ideas, prototypes to production – bringing innovation to life. Our teams are multi-disciplinary, uniting scientific rigor, design ingenuity, and engineering excellence for consumer and healthcare clients. People-centred, deeply collaborative, and – above all – expert, we’re uniquely positioned to shape the future for consumers, patients, and industry. Even our ownership model is innovative: We’re 100% owned by our employees, ensuring an open culture and a total commitment to our projects’ success. As part of our benefits package, we offer:

• flexible working
• a discretionary bonus
• excellent learning and development opportunities
• a 12% non-contributory pension
• private healthcare
• electric vehicle lease salary sacrifice scheme
• share incentive plan
• 33 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays