GCCS Research Assistant

GCCS Research Assistant

Fixed Term – Part Time (12 months) with a hybrid working model.

The Research Assistant supports the Global Centre for Contextual Safeguarding (GCCS) by contributing to research and operational activities across multiple projects. The role involves working closely with senior staff to design and deliver accessible resources, engage with children and young people’s voices, and support bid development and project management.

• Present research findings and support the production of reports and publications.
• Write up research results and communicate progress to supervisory bodies.
• Apply existing methodologies to support basic research assignments.
• Troubleshoot challenges with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and propose solutions.
• Establish and maintain contacts with research colleagues for future collaborations.
• Assist in planning of research projects and student projects.
• Promote a collegial, inclusive, and respectful working environment.
• Engage in wider citizenship activities to support the department.
• Attend relevant training and development courses.

• Good first degree in Sociology, Criminology, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in Sociology, Social Research Methods, or a related field (or actively studying towards one).
• Experience in basic academic research and use of standard research methods.
• Experience generating evidence on children and young people’s voice.
• Ability to produce concise, well‑written reports for various stakeholders.
• Interest or experience in Contextual Safeguarding.
• Cooperative teamwork and participation in research meetings.
• Effective time management and adherence to deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Stakeholder liaison skills.
• Conducting high‑quality academic research.
• Preparing academic papers.
• Understanding of research use in policy or practice.
• Experience working with young people in research or practitioner roles.
• Qualitative research methods (e.g., ethnographic or participatory).
• Planning and managing independent research.

• 27 days annual leave per year (pro‑rata) plus 8 public holidays and 4 customary days.
• Generous pension scheme and automatic enrollment in the University Superannuation Scheme.
• Parking, cycle‑to‑work scheme, local transport discounts, and a car benefit programme.
• Comprehensive health and wellbeing support, including gym membership and Employee Assistance Programme.
• On‑site nursery rated Outstanding by Ofsted and access to holiday camps for children aged 5‑16.
• Family‑friendly policies, including generous maternity and adoption leave.
• Opportunities to volunteer in the local community.
• Discount portal with savings on supermarkets, retail, and leisure attractions.
• Salary‑sacrifice schemes for tax savings.
• Support for relocation and visa expenses.

We welcome applications from under‑represented groups, including candidates with disabilities, neurodiversity, long‑term health conditions, women, and ethnic minority communities. We are committed to equitable treatment throughout the recruitment process and will make reasonable adjustments where required.