Research Associate in Education

The School of Education is looking for a Research Associate to join an exciting programme of research exploring the future of sustainable school leadership.

Working with Professor Toby Greany and the wider research team, you will contribute to research examining how school leaders are responding to the changing demands being placed on schools, their staff, pupils and communities. The role will build on Professor Greany's recent ESRC-funded research into Sustainable School Leadership across the UK.

The research highlighted how the COVID-19 pandemic acted as a significant turning point for schools, accelerating changes already underway while creating new challenges for school leaders. Alongside their focus on teaching, learning and educational improvement, leaders are increasingly required to respond to issues including inclusion, additional learning needs, mental health and wellbeing, safeguarding, behaviour and attendance.

This has raised important questions about the purpose of education, the role of school leaders and how schools can create environments where both educational improvement and care are supported.

As Research Associate, you will play an important role in extending our understanding of these issues. You will undertake a range of research activities, including:

• conducting literature reviews and engaging with relevant academic and policy research
• planning and carrying out qualitative and/or quantitative research
• undertaking interviews, focus groups and surveys with school leaders and other stakeholders
• analysing and interpreting research data
• preparing research reports, papers and other outputs
• presenting findings to academic and professional audiences
• contributing to academic publications, conferences and seminars
• developing research partnerships and networks within the UK and internationally
• working with the research team to develop proposals for future large-scale research and funding opportunities.

The project includes research across a selection of European countries, so there will also be opportunities for national and international travel and to develop your research networks beyond the UK.

You will have the opportunity to take responsibility for aspects of the research project, while working closely with Professor Greany and other senior colleagues. You may also have opportunities to support research assistants and students and contribute to teaching-related activities within the School of Education.

We are looking for someone with a strong interest in school leadership, education policy and the changing role of schools.

You will have experience of undertaking research and be confident working with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods. You will be able to analyse complex information, identify key themes and communicate your findings clearly to different audiences.

You will ideally have experience of research relating to school leadership and policy, together with evidence of making an independent contribution to research projects and producing written research outputs.

You will also be able to demonstrate:

• experience of designing and undertaking research
• the ability to synthesise complex information from different sources
• strong written and verbal communication skills
• the ability to work independently, manage your own workload and meet deadlines
• an ability to work collaboratively as part of a research team
• a doctoral-level qualification, or evidence that you are currently working towards one.

Experience of developing partnerships, presenting research, contributing to funding proposals or supporting student research would also be welcomed.

Fluency in one or more European languages would be desirable.

How to apply: Please attach your CV and covering letter to the online portal