Research Assistant (Part-time), School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics

To conduct interviews and focus groups and collect and analyse quantitative and qualitative data in two different socio-economic areas of Belfast for a project funded by the Wellcome Trust. This is a part-time post – two days per week for eight months.

MAJOR DUTIES:

1. Work with the project team to design semi-structured interviews.

2. Work with the project team to design a series of focus groups.

3. Conduct all semi-structured interviews and focus groups.

4. Work with the project team to develop the program of engagement activities, supporting the project lead (Olwen Purdue) in delivering these activities.

5. Building on the PARC project’s existing contacts with community groups, lead on the recruitment of participants to the project.

6. Present regular progress reports on research to members of the research group or to external audiences to disseminate and publicise research findings.

7. Write up results of own work and contribute to the production of research reports, publications and proposals.

8. Take responsibility for the administration of participant recruitment, data collection and engagement activities.

9. Carry out routine administrative duties as requested, e.g. arranging research group meetings, maintaining research group website.

10. Read academic papers, journals and textbooks to keep abreast of developments.

11. Carry out any other duties designated by a line manager and which fall within the general ambit of the post.

Planning and Organising:

1. Plan own day-to-day activity within the framework of the agreed research programme.

Resource Management Responsibilities:

1. Ensure research resources are used in an effective and efficient manner.

Internal and External Relationships:

1. Liaise with research colleagues and support staff on routine matters.

2. Make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding and form relationships for future collaboration.

3. Attend and contribute to relevant meetings.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:

1. Degree or equivalent in subject relevant to research activity.

2. Practical experience of conducting semi-structured interviews with research subjects.

3. Practical experience of conducting focus groups as part of a research project.

4. Sufficient breadth or depth of specialist knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within own area.

5. Capacity to organise time effectively and meet deadlines.

6. Ability to work successfully both independently and as part of a team.

7. Excellent communication skills both verbally and in writing.

8. Ability to interact with research colleagues and support staff.

9. Ability to analyse and communicate effectively.

10. Demonstrable intellectual ability.

11. Self-motivated, punctual and reliable.

12. Awareness of ethical principles of research practice and respect for rights of all.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA:

1. May be working towards a PhD or post graduate qualification.

2. Some experience of designing social scientific research projects and methodologies.

3. Capacity to bring a range of approaches to effectively solve problems.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Please note that the School of History and Anthropology will merge with the School of Politics, International Studies and Philosophy on 1 August 2016. The new School name will be the School of History, Anthropology, Politics and Philosophy