Research Assistant

Job title: Research Assistant

Department: Department of Development Studies

Contract Type: 6 months fixed term contract (part time, 24.5 hrs pw)

Grade: 6

Salary:  £35,318.57 pro-rata (0.7 FTE)

Location: Bloomsbury / remote

Hours: 24.5 hours per week

SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East.  SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.

About the Role

The Research assistant will work to research and promote practical responses to refugee housing issues in London, under the supervision of Dr Anna Lindley and Dr Charlotte Sanders. The project is funded by the ESRC Creating Opportunities through Local Innovative Fellowship. This is a six-month part-time research role, 0.7 FTE.

You will be assisting in an impact project on refugee housing transitions, undertaking desk-based research and interviews with key stakeholders; contributing to data analysis and output writing; organising project events with key stakeholders; ensuring effective dissemination of project outputs through local government, voluntary and community sector and academic networks.

The successful candidate will have a Masters’ degree in a relevant subject, good knowledge of UK asylum/refugee policy and housing policy, as well as experience working with local government bodies in the UK. Proven experience of qualitative research, report-writing and event organisation is required. Lived experience of the asylum process or knowledge of a common asylum language and familiarity NVivo qualitative data analysis software would be an advantage.

You can find further information on the key criteria for the role in the Job Description and Person Specification, along with a full list of duties and responsibilities, which can be found on the SOAS website.

About the Department

The Department of Development Studies is a leading centre of research and teaching around global development. We specialise in a range of thematic areas including sustainability and climate change, migration and displacement, conflict and humanitarian action, labour, political ecology, and aid and institutions

What We Offer:

We are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to enhance your well-being and work-life balance:

• Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 5 closure days over Christmas and Easter) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
• Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
• Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future
• Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Health and Well-being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
• Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
• Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
• Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.

How to Apply: 

Please complete the online application form and upload your and a supporting statement

Closing date: 11th May 2025                              

Interviews to be held: 27th and 28th May 2025.

Use of AI

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Further information

Successful candidates will need to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK or have limited leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with SOAS, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.

We are not able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.

If you have any questions or require any assistance with regard to the application process, please contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS

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