Job Duties. While projects are in the planning stages, research officers and managers work with team members to identify project goals, research methods, variables, and other test parameters. They also choose how to collect data and offer recommendations on evaluating the project.Social researchers plan, design, conduct, manage and report on social research projects. You will use a variety of methods to collect, analyse and organise information and data, which you then present to others, either in a written report or as an oral presentation. A range of methods, such as interviews, survey questionnaires and focus groups, are used to investigate the attitudes, behaviour and experiences of population samples on specific issues. Research findings may be used to shape policy or to examine the effectiveness of existing policy.The research might centre on a range of topics, such as: the benefits system; crime; education; the environment gender; healthcare; population structure and migration; poverty; social services; transport; unemployment. get instructions from your client about the nature of the research to be carried out; use an appropriate and creative methodology to design and manage a research project, which may involve the use of quantitative and/or qualitative methods and may include both pilot and development work; design questionnaires; apply a range of research techniques to gather relevant information, including document analysis, surveys, case studies and interviews (face-to-face, telephone and online); develop and test theories; liaise with and direct social research field interviewers to gather information; carry out information and data retrieval searches using electronic databases; analyse and evaluate research and interpret data, making sure that key issues are identified; gather information by directing or carrying out fieldwork; prepare, present and disseminate results, for example as a verbal presentation and in a written report; offer research-based briefings and advice, which may involve writing action plans; advise external bodies on social policy; prepare and present tenders for new research projects.economics/business studies; geography; mathematics; politics; psychology; social policy; sociology; statistics experience in quantitative and/or qualitative methodologies and research techniques; numeracy and confidence in using statistical techniques and computer-based programs; strong analytical skills; excellent interpersonal, teamworking and communication skills; report-writing skills; project management skills; accuracy and attention to detail; a flexible approach to be able to work on several different research projects at the same time; organisation skills, including time management and the ability to work under pressure and to deadlines.