The Role
We are seeking a Research Assistant (RA) who can work alongside the researcher to collect and analyse data from the project. The children’s perceptions will be collected through a pre and post questionnaire and a number of group interviews, all of which will take place in a local school. The researcher will be involved in administering and collating the questionnaire data, transcribing interview data and conducting analysis of both. They will need to ensure adherence to methodological and ethical requirements, and maintain project documentation and data.
Required skills and experience
This is a temporary, research-focused job for someone who has already earned a doctoral degree like a PhD. The successful applicant will also require a DBS. Candidates require experience in quantitative and qualitative research methods. They should have proficiency in standard IT applications (Outlook, OneDrive, Word, Excel), strong communication skills and a high level of attention to detail. Experience of working as an academic research assistant (paid or voluntary) would be an advantage. Previous experience working with children in a school setting is also preferable.
The role is a maximum of 30 hours in total (over the period of the project).
Additional information
The selection process will include a brief interview (you are not required to give a presentation). Further details will be provided if you are shortlisted for interview.
Unfortunately this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship however we welcome your application if you are able to evidence right to work in the UK via an alternative route.
We offer a range of family friendly and inclusive policies and facilities and welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. As part of our commitment to providing an inclusive working environment, consideration is given to all requests for job share or flexible working arrangements.
This vacancy is scheduled to close on the date indicated at the bottom of this advert, but we encourage you to please apply as early as possible as we may consider closing earlier if we receive a high level of applications. If the vacancy is closed earlier, all pending applicants will be notified and provided with 24 hours' notice to submit an application.
Application process support
We are keen to support you throughout the recruitment process. Before starting your application please refer to the attached candidate application form guidance below which provides advice about completing the application process.
Please note that CVs are not accepted in place of the application form. Within the application process you will be asked to answer a selection of work-related questions. Our aim is to get to know you, and understand your individual skills and experience, and how you would apply these within the role. We are aware that AI can be helpful in shaping your responses, but we encourage you to share your answers in your own words.
Our benefits package
We offer a wide range of employee benefits including -
- Excellent annual leave entitlement, including five discretionary university closure days over the Christmas period
- Disability leave (applies to staff who have disclosed a disability and is also available to staff with disabled dependants)
- Pension scheme
- Health Cash Plan after six months service
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Paid leave for Armed Forces Reservists
- On-campus courses, one-to-one tutorials, and online resources to help you develop your digital skills and work with new software
- Relocation expenses package for certain roles
- Reimbursement of Skilled Worker Visa application fees and for additional costs (if applicable to the role)
Further information about life at YSJ
Our attached 'further information' document below provides further information about our culture, achievements and testimonials from our employees.
Closing Date - Sunday 01 November 2026 at midnight Provisional Interview Date - Wednesday 18 November 2026