As the living, growing home of our national story, The National Archives is already a special place to work. We’re an institution nearly 200 years old with a collection spanning 1,000 years of history. But it’s where we go next that makes things really interesting.
In our strategic vision: Archives for Everyone, we set ourselves the challenge of becoming the 21st Century national archive - a different kind of cultural and heritage institution: Inclusive, Entrepreneurial, Disruptive. We won’t become this overnight. It will take time, focus, effort and daring.
That’s where you come in. Because we can’t do this without you.
Job Overview
Salary: £30,000 (Junior) / £26,700 (Associate) + excellent benefits & professional development
Contract type: Permanent, full-time (part-time or flexible working considered)
Apprenticeship opportunity available for Associate roleBand: D/EO (Junior) / C/AO (Associate)
Closing date: Tuesday 1st April at midnight
Shape the Future of Digital Archives – Your Research, Your Impact
At The National Archives, we don’t just preserve history—we ensure it remains accessible, meaningful, and usable for generations to come. As the official archive of the UK Government, we safeguard records that define our democracy, from historic treaties to the latest digital-born government data. Our work ensures that public records—whether websites, digital correspondence, or machine-readable datasets—remain a vital resource for researchers, policymakers, and the public.
User research is at the heart of this mission. Digital archives are only as valuable as the people who use them, and our success depends on understanding their needs. Whether improving how government departments transfer records or enhancing how the public interacts with born-digital archives, user-centred design shapes everything we do.
As a User Researcher, you will play a key role in this effort, ensuring our services are intuitive, inclusive, and built around real-world user needs. You will work within a multi-disciplinary team, using research methods such as interviews, usability testing, and data analysis to drive the development of innovative digital archiving solutions. Your insights will shape services that protect and open up access to the nation’s digital heritage.
This is not just a research role—it’s an opportunity to influence how the UK’s most valuable digital records are preserved and accessed. If you are passionate about human-centred design, digital preservation, and the power of public records, this role will put you at the forefront of an exciting, ever-evolving field.
About the Role
We are recruiting for one position, with two possible routes depending on experience and career goals:
Option 1: Junior User Researcher (Band D) – an early-career role as a User Researcher
If you have qualifications in user research, human-computer interaction (HCI), or a related field, and wish to gain more practical experience; or if you are returning to the workforce after a break — this may be the role for you. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who has developed relevant skills through study or self-learning and is ready to apply them in a professional setting.
We would also like to encourage applicants who are currently studying part-time for a qualification in user research, HCI or a related discipline.
Option 2: Associate User Researcher (Band C) – a flexible, entry-level role
This role is for those who may not yet have a formal qualification in user research but have transferable skills and a strong interest in a career in this field. You might come from a background in psychology, social sciences, customer research, service design, or another discipline where you have developed skills in understanding people’s behaviours and needs.
As an Associate, you can
• Use this as an entry-level position to gain hands-on experience as a User Researcher
and/or
• Undertake formal study while you work via an apprenticeship, leading to a professional qualification in User Research
A combination of onsite and home working is available and applicants should be able to regularly travel to our Kew site for a minimum of 60% of their work time.
What you will do
In either role, you will work closely with our Senior User Researcher, supporting a multi-disciplinary Agile product team. You will
Conduct user research using interviews, surveys, usability testing, and other methods
Analyse and present research findings to help shape digital services
Work directly with designers, product managers, and developers
Learn from experienced researchers while developing your own expertise
Advocate for user-centred design and help improve public digital services
Who we are looking for
We are looking for individuals with
A curious, analytical approach to understanding how people use digital services
Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with different stakeholders
A highly organised and proactive mindset, capable of managing multiple tasks
A collaborative approach, working effectively within a team
Which role should you apply for?
If you already have qualifications or experience in user research or a related field and are ready for a professional role, apply for the Junior User Researcher position.
If you have transferable skills, some knowledge, and are looking for a way to enter the field, apply for the Associate User Researcher position. For the right candidate, the Associate role has the option of studying while you work for a professional qualification in user research, via an Apprenticeship.
We are committed to supporting diverse career paths and welcome applications from those currently studying part-time, returning to work after a break, or transitioning from other fields.
Why join The National Archives?
Working at The National Archives means contributing to a vital national institution at the forefront of digital preservation. You will be part of a team ensuring that today’s government records remain accessible for decades, even centuries, to come. The scale and significance of this work are unique in the UK and internationally.
We offer:
A strong focus on professional development with access to training and learning opportunities
A collaborative and inclusive workplace, where innovative ideas are encouraged
Excellent benefits, including a Civil Service pension with up to 27.9% employer contributions
Free access to Kew Gardens, Hampton Court Palace, and national museums
How to Apply
Read the full job descriptions carefully and indicate in your application whether you wish to be considered for the Junior or Associate role (or both).
To submit your application please click the 'Apply' button on this page. You will be asked to provide details of your work experience and write a personal statement, not exceeding 1200 words. In your personal statement please explain, using examples, how you meet the essential criteria in the person specification below. You may draw on knowledge, skills, abilities, experience gained from paid work, domestic responsibilities, education, leisure interests and voluntary activities. Please note selection for interview will largely be based on the information you provide in this section.
We understand that you might use artificial intelligence (AI) and other resources to assist with your application; however, please ensure all information you provide is factually accurate, truthful, and original and doesn’t include ideas or work that isn’t your own. We encourage you to showcase your unique knowledge and skills using your own voice.
Apply now and be part of shaping the future of digital archiving.
Job Description- Associate User Researcher
Job Purpose
Archives are the homes for our collective memories, past and future. The National Archives is the archive of UK government and one of the world’s leading digital archives. Our vision is to become an accessible inclusive, living digital archive that is used and useful.
The Digital Archiving team at The National Archives are committed to delivering high quality, innovative and user-friendly digital services to diverse audiences (including government, the public, students and researchers). Our talented, professional user researchers support our vision, helping us understand our users so that we can better meet their needs.
As a user researcher, you will work as a member of an interdisciplinary Agile product development team. You will report to the Senior User Researcher and work closely with other team members including Interaction Designers, Product Manager, Delivery Manager and Software Engineers. You will collaborate closely with other user researchers across the organisation as well as key stakeholders within the department and beyond.
This role requires a strong sense of curiosity and a genuine interest in understanding people – their behaviours, motivations, and way of doing things. An ability to build good working relationships and work well with others is essential. You must be an honest, open and clear communicator who is highly organised and able to work with focus and independence to complete the work that is expected of you.
The Associate User Researcher is an entry-level position within the Digital Archiving team at The National Archives, aimed at individuals who are new to the field of user research. This role provides an opportunity to gain exposure to all aspects of user research by shadowing and assisting the Senior User Researcher. The Associate User Researcher will gradually assume greater responsibility for designing, planning, and conducting user research activities under appropriate supervision. This position requires a strong sense of curiosity, a genuine interest in understanding user behaviours and motivations, and the ability to build good working relationships. The Associate User Researcher will support the development of user-friendly digital services by conducting research that informs the design and improvement of these services
You will initially be based in our Digital Selection and Transfer team. The team builds services that help secure the future of the digital Public Record. Our work makes it easier and faster for Government bodies to transfer records to the Archive for the benefit of future generations.
Role and Responsibilities
This role corresponds to the Associate user researcher role in the DDaT framework: https://ddat-capability-framework.service.gov.uk/role/user-researcher
Build a detailed knowledge of our services, our users and potential users, as well as barriers to use of our services.
Understand the role and importance of user research across the different product design phases.
Support the Senior User Researcher as required, gaining exposure to all aspects of the work. You will initially shadow and assist with these activities. As you learn, you will assume greater responsibility for designing, planning and running user research, with appropriate supervision and guidance. For example:
Identify and recruit participants for user studies.
Plan and carry out research activities including interviews, observational work, usability testing sessions, unmoderated research sessions and workshops.
Create required research outputs and documentation. Maintain accurate and up-to-date research records, including for legal compliance purposes.
Analyse and synthesise findings to present back to the team. Translate research findings into practical statements of user need that the team can act on.
Work with enthusiasm and commitment as an engaged and motivated member of the team. Understand the team’s work, objectives and business priorities and ensure that your work supports the team in achieving these.
Deliver work on time and to the required quality.
Work openly and communicate about your work and why it is important. Share your knowledge with others within the organisation, offering advice and support where you can. Develop your presentation skills through talking about what you do.
Take responsibility for your own learning and development so that you benefit from the learning opportunities that are available to you. Actively seek advice and support where needed. Grow your skills while making a valuable, positive contribution to work of the team.
Working Conditions
Normal office environment.
Display screen equipment user.
Person Specification
Essential criteria:
A genuine interest in user research. Aware of relevant processes and suitable methods.
Makes detailed plans which follow relevant standards. Works carefully with strong attention to detail to analyse information and present findings clearly. Understands the importance of good quality, evidence-based user research reports.
Able to develop good working relationships with others, including colleagues and users of the service. Aware of the importance of building and maintaining good relationships with stakeholders.
Able to communicate clearly and openly with internal and external staff. Committed to working in the open and sharing your work and knowledge with others.
Understands the benefits of user-centred approaches to software development. Able to advocate for user-centred approaches within the team.
Aware of the impact of digital services and technologies on people’s lives. Able to explain the need for inclusive services that adapt to people’s needs. Can describe how user research contributes to this.
Highly organised and ICT literate. Able to manage and make progress on multiple tasks and commitments. Delivers work on time and to the required quality.
Demonstrates an ability to learn and shows a passion and strong commitment to developing skills as a user researcher. Pro-active in taking learning opportunities and seeking advice or support when needed. Able to apply learning to day-to-day work.
Desirable criteria:
Experience of user research, HCI or a related discipline, gained through work or study
Knowledge of Agile software development approaches
Other Requirements
Travel to other departments may be required for in-person research or meetings. Occasional overnight stays may be required.
Hybrid working is available. Staff are expected to spend at least 60% of their time in the office, this may be more for development roles or while staff are new to the role.
Job Description- Junior User Researcher
Job Purpose
Archives are the homes for our collective memories, past and future. The National Archives is the archive of UK government and one of the world’s leading digital archives. Our vision is to become an accessible inclusive, living digital archive that is used and useful.
The Digital Archiving team at The National Archives are committed to delivering high quality, innovative and user-friendly digital services to diverse audiences (including government, the public, students and researchers). Our talented, professional user researchers support our vision, helping us understand our users so that we can better meet their needs.
As a user researcher, you will work as a member of an interdisciplinary Agile product development team. You will report to the Senior User Researcher and work closely with other team members including Interaction Designers, Product Manager, Delivery Manager and Software Engineers. You will collaborate closely with other user researchers across the organisation as well as key stakeholders within the department and beyond.
The Junior User Researcher plays a crucial role in supporting the Digital Archiving team at The National Archives. This position is designed for individuals who are at the beginning of their user research career and are eager to develop their skills and knowledge.
The Junior User Researcher will work under the guidance of the Senior User Researcher, assisting with various research activities and gradually taking on more responsibilities as they gain experience.
This role requires a strong sense of curiosity, a genuine interest in understanding user behaviours and motivations, and the ability to build strong working relationships. The Junior User Researcher will contribute to the development of user-friendly digital services by conducting research that informs the design and improvement of these services.
You will initially be based in our Digital Selection and Transfer team. The team builds services that help secure the digital Public Record. Our work makes it easier and faster for Government bodies to transfer records to the Archive for the benefit of future generations.
Role and Responsibilities
This role corresponds to the Junior User Researcher role in the DDaT framework: https://ddat-capability-framework.service.gov.uk/role/user-researcher
Build a detailed knowledge of our services, our users and potential users, as well as barriers to use of our services.
Understand and be able to articulate the role and importance of user research across the different product design phases. Advocate for user research within the product team.
Support the Senior User Experience Researcher as required, assisting with all aspects of the work. Design, plan and run user research with appropriate supervision and guidance. Develop your professional skills and work with confidence and increasing independence. For example:
Identify and recruit participants for user studies.
Plan and carry out research activities including interviews, observational work, usability testing sessions, unmoderated research sessions and workshops.
Create required research outputs and documentation. Maintain accurate and up-to-date research records, including for legal compliance purposes.
Analyse and synthesise findings to present back to the team. Translate research findings into practical statements of user need that the team can act on.
Work with enthusiasm and commitment as an engaged and motivated member of the team. Understand the team’s work, objectives and business priorities and ensure that your work supports the team in achieving these.
Deliver work on time and to the required quality.
Work openly and communicate about your work and why it is important. Share your knowledge with others within the organisation, offering advice and support where you can. Develop your presentation skills through talking about what you do.
Take responsibility for your own learning and development so that you benefit from the learning opportunities that are available to you. Actively seek advice and support where needed. Grow your skills while making a valuable, positive contribution to work of the team.
Working Conditions
Normal office environment.
Display screen equipment user.
Person Specification
Essential criteria:
A genuine interest in user research. Experience of relevant approaches and methods for user research, HCI or a related discipline, gained through work or study.
Aware of relevant standards and approaches. Makes detailed plans that follow standards. Works carefully with strong attention to detail to analyse information and present findings clearly. Understands and can clearly explain the importance of good quality, evidence-based user research reports.
Experience of developing strong working relationships with others, including colleagues and users of the service. Understands the importance of building and maintaining good relationships with stakeholders with an awareness of differences in communication for different audiences.
Able to communicate clearly, confidently and openly with internal and external staff. Committed to working in the open and sharing your work and knowledge with others.
Understands the benefits of user-centred approaches to software development. Able to advocate for user-centred approaches across the department.
Understands the impact of Government digital services and technologies on people’s lives. Able to explain the need for inclusive services that adapt to people’s needs. Can describe how user research contributes to this.
Highly organised and ICT literate. Experience of managing a varied workload and making progress on multiple tasks and commitments. Delivers work on time and to the required quality.
Demonstrates an ability to learn and shows a passion and strong commitment to developing skills as a user researcher. Pro-active in taking learning opportunities and seeking advice or support when needed. Proactive in applying learning to day-to-day work.
Desirable criteria:
Knowledge of Agile software development approaches
Other Requirements
Travel to other departments may be required for in-person research or meetings. Occasional overnight stays may be required.
Hybrid working is available. Staff are expected to spend at least 60% of their time in the office, this may be more for development roles or while staff are new to the role.
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is
found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan and the Civil Service
D&I Strategy.
Benefits
Generous benefits package, including pension, sports and social club facilities, onsite gym, discounted rates at our on-site cafe and opportunities for training and development. Annual leave entitlement of 22 days per calendar year (rising to 25 after the first year, and incrementally to 30 days after six years) and 10½ days public and privilege holidays per annum.
Any move to The National Archives from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/ (opens in new window)
Reasonable adjustments
If a person with disabilities is put at a substantial disadvantage compared to a non-disabled person, we have a duty to make reasonable changes to our processes.
If you need a change to be made so that you can make your application, you should:
Contact The National Archives via [email protected] as soon as possible before the closing date to discuss your needs
Complete the ‘Reasonable Adjustments’ section of your application form to tell us what changes or help you might need further on in the recruitment process. For instance, you may need wheelchair access at interview, or if you’re deaf, a Language Service Professional
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check.
People working with government assets must complete basic personnel security standard checks (opens in new window)
Nationality requirements
This job is broadly open to the following groups:
UK nationals
nationals of the Republic of Ireland
nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Further information on nationality requirements (opens in new window)
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles. (opens in new window)
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans initiative. (opens in new window
Contact point for applicants:
Name: The National Archives Recruitment Team
Email: [email protected]
Further information
If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, you should contact The National Archives via email: [email protected] If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission at https://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk/recruitment/recruitment-complaints/ (opens in new window)