Data Analyst (PhD qualified)

Readingsu; Reading; On-site; GBP 31,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic student-focused organisation in Reading is seeking a PhD-qualified Data Analyst. You will lead data-driven research to provide actionable insights that enhance student engagement and support strategies. Proficiency in tools like Power BI and Tableau is essential. Join a supportive team with flexible working options and a commitment to improving the student experience.

Benefits

35 days annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• PhD-qualified researcher with significant experience in data analysis.
• Proficient in data visualisation tools for accurate insights.
• Understanding of data ethics and GDPR compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and analysis projects to drive evidence-based decisions.
• Create dashboards and reports for effective data storytelling.
• Identify pain points in student engagement through data analysis.

Skills

Advanced analytical skills

Data visualisation proficiency

Expertise in survey design

Strong communication skills

Collaboration and innovation

Time management

Attention to detail

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

Job description

Join to apply for the Data Analyst (PhD qualified) role at Reading Students' Union

Job Details

• Location: University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus, Reading, Berkshire
• Contract: Full time 35 hours a week
• Salary: £30,981.64 per annum

About Reading Students' Union

We are a dynamic, student-focused organisation dedicated to empowering students and enhancing their university experience. Our mission is to provide inclusive spaces, innovative services, and opportunities for personal growth.

The Role: Data Analyst

Love data analytics and research? This is your chance to bring our ambitious new data‑drive strategy to life – creating agile insights that are engaging and accessible to a diverse range of audiences.

You’ll champion data innovation to keep us ahead of the curve and truly understand our students' evolving needs – creating a beating heart of data‑driven campaigns with real‑time impact. You’ll turn raw data into powerful insights that shape student life. Your work will influence decisions, improve services, and ensure student voices are heard loud and clear.

What You'll Do

• Lead impactful research and analysis projects that drive evidence‑based decisions and shape strategy.
• Turn complex data into clear, actionable insights for teams, leadership, and external partners – raising our profile and strengthening our brand.
• Create compelling dashboards, reports, and infographics that tell stories of student life and organisational impact.
• Identify opportunities and pain points in student engagement, wellbeing, and retention through feedback and trend analysis.
• Create a culture of data‑driven thinking, embedding insight into campaigns, service design, and strategic planning.
• Work closely with elected officers to measure impact, track progress, and transform manifesto priorities into measurable outcomes.
• Support commercial development and funding bids with robust data and insight.
• Produce our Annual Impact Report and deliver regular reporting cycles to monitor key metrics on student experience and organisational performance.
• Manage feedback loops so students see how their voices drive change.
• Develop and streamline data and planning tools by creating dashboards, templates, and reporting frameworks.
• Share expertise and build capability by delivering training and guidance on data analytics, tools and best practice across the organisation.

What We’re Looking For

• PhD‑qualified researcher with significant experience in data analysis.
• Advanced analytical skills with the ability to clean, interpret, and visualise data accurately.
• Proficiency in data visualisation tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or similar platforms.
• Expertise in survey design, feedback collection, and handling both quantitative and qualitative data.
• Strong understanding of data ethics, GDPR compliance, and research best practices.
• Ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights and compelling narratives.
• Strategic mindset – applying insights to campaigns, service design, and organisational delivery.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging diverse audiences.
• Collaborative and innovative approach, with a passion for enhancing student experience.
• Exceptional time management and ability to prioritise tasks across multiple projects.
• Meticulous attention to detail, with the ability to identify trends and anomalies.

Desirable

• Experience in education, charity, or student‑focused environments.
• Understanding of the higher education and/or students’ union context.

Why Join Us?

• Inclusive and supportive team culture.
• Flexible working options.
• 35 days annual leave including Christmas and Easter closure days.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Unique working environment in the heart of a vibrant student union, set on a stunning, green campus.

Ready to Make an Impact?

Apply today and help us deliver on our data‑drive strategy that drives real change!

Committed to equality, celebrating diversity, and embedding sustainability—building an inclusive workplace and a brighter future for all.