Research Associate, Academic, Education Administration

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The primary purpose of the position is to provide research support to the School of Education, Youth, Childhood and Sport, with a particular focus on Initial Teacher Education (ITE) and aligned to the work of the Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) programmes in Wales.
The role holder will assist the Head of School and Director of the PGCE in Wales to promote research related to Initial Teacher Education in Wales within the Faculty and that of the School of Education, Youth, Childhood and Sport more broadly. The role holder will also support and co‑coordinate the research of a team of ITE Curriculum Tutors supporting the PGCE programme in Wales.

Mentoring and supporting the postdoc’s personal research programme will be covered in appropriate ways.

Please note:

the earliest start date for this role is 1 April 2026

• Conduct research in education with a focus on Welsh context and Initial Teacher Education (ITE), ensuring compliance with ethical and legal standards.
• Coordinate and support research for the PGCE programme and the School, working closely with the Director and Curriculum Tutors to develop a strategic approach.
• Review literature and produce summaries; assist with grant submissions and data collection or fieldwork as needed.
• Write and publish scholarly papers, co‑author publications, and contribute to books and other outputs.
• Disseminate research findings through academic channels and communicate to wider audiences, including the OU ITE Partnership.
• Support the Director PGCE in enhancing the research profile of Curriculum Tutors, including alignment, bids, and engagement with research communities.
• Provide editorial assistance and organise events relevant to ITE research.
• Collaborate with researchers across the OU ITE Partnership and external academic, public sector, and school organisations.

• PhD in a relevant area of education, such as Welsh educational context and reform, teacher education, or initial teacher education.
• Proven ability to conduct literature reviews and collect, analyse, and synthesise qualitative and/or quantitative data using multiple research methods.
• Strong academic skills, including interpreting literature, developing conceptual frameworks, contributing to debates, and communicating effectively.
• Demonstrated capacity for independent and team‑based work, with problem‑solving skills and adaptability to changing priorities.
• Experience collaborating with external partners such as academic researchers, public sector organisations, and schools.
• Evidence of a research trajectory, including a clear plan for publication over the next three years.
• Expertise in writing, editing, and publishing in English, with knowledge of ethical considerations when researching with children and young people.
• Commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion in line with the University’s ethos, and a record of research or knowledge exchange appropriate to the role.
• Ability to read, write, and speak Welsh to a high standard, including conducting and writing research through the medium of Welsh.
• Good record of research publication for the stage of career.

If you have any questions, or need support or adjustments relating to your application, the recruitment process, or the role, please contact us on or email quoting the advert reference number.

At The Open University, we offer a range of benefits to recognise and reward great work, alongside policies and flexible working that contribute towards a great work life balance. Get all the details of what benefits we offer by visiting our Staff Benefits page (clicking this link will open a new window).

We are open to discussions about flexible working. Whether it’s a job share, part time, compressed hours or another working…