Graduate Research Assistant in Neurodiversity and Mathematical Learning

University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading university is seeking a graduate researcher for a project focusing on early mathematical learning for neurodivergent children. The role involves collaboration, data collection, and contributions to research outputs. Flexible work arrangements are available.

Qualifications

• Interest in developmental psychology and education.
• Experience with cognitive or educational assessments in primary settings.

Responsibilities

• Visiting and liaising with schools.
• Collecting data from participating children.
• Contributing to report writing and presentations.

Skills

Developmental Psychology

Communication

Experience with Children

Job description

We are seeking a graduate researcher or an equivalent professional to join an exciting new project at the interface between developmental psychology, education, and neurodiversity.

Project Overview

The interdisciplinary longitudinal project will employ standardised assessments, experimental measures (e.g., child-friendly iPad-based assessments, online assessments), and mixed methods to understand cognitive and educational contributors to early mathematical learning for neurodivergent children. The focus will be on three groups of children with genetic conditions diagnosed early in life: Down’s syndrome, fragile X syndrome, or Williams syndrome, aiming to understand factors contributing to positive outcomes and independence in early numeracy.

Location and Team

The position is based in Oxford, currently in the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, with the move to the new, purpose-built Life and Mind Building scheduled for summer 2025. The role involves collaboration with a team connecting the University of Oxford, Surrey University, and University College London.

Responsibilities

1. Visiting and liaising with schools
2. Working with participating children to collect data
3. Data coding and entry
4. Collaborating on all project aspects: recruitment, data collection, longitudinal planning, data curation, and open science
5. Contributing to report writing, presentations, publications, and dissemination to non-academic audiences

Qualifications and Skills

• Interest in developmental psychology and education
• Experience or interest in working with children with genetic conditions, intellectual disabilities, or neurodiversity (advantageous)
• Excellent communication skills
• Experience with primary school settings in cognitive or educational assessments (essential)
• Interest in working as part of an interdisciplinary team

Supervision and Collaboration

The post will be supervised by Prof Gaia Scerif and involve collaboration with Prof Emily Farran and Prof Jo van Herwegen, all internationally recognized experts in their fields.

Employment Details

This is a fixed-term position, either part-time at 0.5 FTE (2.5 days/week) for 12 months or full-time at 1.0 FTE for 6 months, with flexible arrangements considered.

Application Process

Applications should be submitted online with a supporting statement and CV. For more information, contact Gaia Scerif at [e-mail]. The deadline is midday on Tuesday, 10^th June 2025, with interviews in early July. The expected start date is 1^st September 2025 or soon thereafter.

Salary

£34,982 to £40,885 per annum (pro rata for part-time), Grade 6.