Research Assistant

York St. John University; York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

A UK higher education institution is seeking a part-time Research Assistant for a two-year fixed-term role. The successful candidate will support applied health and care research, contributing to data collection, analysis, and reporting while working under a lead researcher. Required qualifications include a first degree in a relevant field and either a completed or ongoing postgraduate qualification. The role offers a unique opportunity to develop research skills in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• First degree in a relevant subject required.
• Currently studying towards or completed a postgraduate qualification.
• Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Responsibilities

• Support coordination and collection of research data.
• Contribute to data analysis and report preparation.
• Work collaboratively with internal and external partners.

Skills

Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods

Good organisational skills

Strong communication skills

Proficiency in IT

Ability to work independently

Education

First degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject

Postgraduate qualification (Level 7)

Job description

Overview

Role: Research Assistant
Department: Institute of Health and Care Improvement
Location: York
Salary: £30,378 to £33,951 per annum pro rata
Contract Duration: 2 years
Closing Date: Friday 13 February 2026 at midnight
Interview Date: Wednesday 04 March 2026
Reference: 007-26
Part time fixed term

The Organisation

Introduction to York St John

Situated in the heart of the historic city of York, and with the addition of our London Campus, York St John University has a long and proud tradition as a distinguished higher education provider. Our success is founded on the quality of academic teaching and research, our thriving campus environments, our professional and pastoral support, and our values of an inclusive, innovative and ambitious community with a strong sense of belonging.

The Team

You will join the Health and Care Research and Evaluation Service (HCRES) within the Institute for Health and Care Improvement. HCRES works in partnership with local, regional and national health, care and voluntary sector organisations to deliver high-quality research and evaluation that informs policy, improves practice, and supports better outcomes for communities. The Service undertakes a wide range of applied research and evaluation projects using qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods, and has a strong emphasis on collaboration, co-production, and impact.

The Role

We are seeking a Postgraduate Research Assistant to support the delivery of applied health and care research and evaluation projects. Working under the supervision of a lead researcher, you will contribute to data collection, analysis, and reporting, with a growing degree of autonomy appropriate to the role.

This is a 22.2 hours per week post offered on a two-year fixed-term basis.

This post is well suited to a candidate who has completed a first degree and is currently studying towards (or already completed) a postgraduate qualification, and who is looking to develop their research skills within a supportive, applied research environment.

Key responsibilities

• Supporting the coordination and collection of research and evaluation data using appropriate research methods
• Contributing to data analysis and the preparation of reports and other research outputs
• Working collaboratively with internal and external partners involved in research and evaluation projects
• Attending project meetings, training, and other activities as required
• Supporting good research practice in line with ethical, governance, and data protection requirements

Required Skills and Experience

• A first degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject
• A postgraduate qualification (Level 7) in a relevant subject ('studying towards' or 'equivalent research experience' will be considered)
• Knowledge and experience of using qualitative and/or quantitative research methods
• Good organisational, communication and IT skills
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a research team
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and to conducting research ethically and sensitively in health and care contexts

Additional information

It is anticipated that the selection process will include an interview and a short presentation. Further details will be provided to candidates who are shortlisted.

To learn more about the Institute for Health and Care Improvement and the Health and Care Research and Evaluation Service, please visit: yorksj.ac.uk/ihci

For informal enquiries please contact Professor Garry Tew at [e-mail].

Unfortunately this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship however we welcome your application if you are able to evidence right to work in the UK via an alternative route.

Closing Date - Friday 13 February 2026 at midnight

Provisional Interview Date - Wednesday 04 March 2026