Research Assistant - ITE (146-26)

York St John University; York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

York St John University in York is seeking a Casual Research Assistant to support data collection and analysis for a project on Philosophy for Children and AI. The role involves administering questionnaires and conducting group interviews in local schools, with data transcription and analysis under supervision.

Applicants should hold a doctoral degree (PhD), have DBS clearance, and experience in both quantitative and qualitative methods.

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree required (PhD or equivalent).
• Experience with both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Proficiency with standard IT tools (Outlook, OneDrive, Word, Excel).

Responsibilities

• Assist on data collection and analysis from the project using questionnaires and group interviews.
• Transcribe interview data and organise data for analysis.
• Maintain project documentation and ensure compliance with ethical requirements.

Skills

Quantitative research methods

Qualitative research methods

IT applications

Education

PhD or doctoral degree

Tools

Excel

Job description

Casual (hours will be offered on an ad-hoc basis in accordance with the University s resource requirements)

Salary: 17.98- 20.74 per hour (exclusive of holiday pay). Holiday pay is accrued at 12.07% in addition to the hourly rate.

Location: York

Introduction to YSJ university

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 Project

Developed in the 1960s by Matthew Lipman, Philosophy for Children (P4C) provides a structured approach to developing children's philosophical thinking through dialogue. Its aim is not to make children into philosophers, but to help them think more effectively by developing reasoning, judgement, and critical thinking skills (Lipman, 2017). The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into daily life presents both opportunities and challenges, including cognitive, ethical, and environmental concerns. As AI becomes more prevalent, critical thinking is essential to enable children to make informed decisions about its use (Shahresani, 2025).

The role is linked to a small-scale project seeks to explore how P4C can support the development of critical thinking about AI. Using a mixed-methods approach, it builds on previous research showing that primary-aged children demonstrate creativity and criticality in philosophical dialogue (Elbra-Ramsay, 2025). Data will be collected through pre- and post-project questionnaires and qualitative group interviews.

The Role

We are seeking a Research Assistant (RA) who can work alongside the researcher to collect and analyse data from the project. The children's perceptions will be collected through a pre and post questionnaire and a number of group interviews, all of which will take place in a local school. The researcher will be involved in administering and collating the questionnaire data, transcribing interview data and conducting analysis of both. They will need to ensure adherence to methodological and ethical requirements, and maintain project documentation and data.

Required skills and experience

This is a temporary, research-focused job for someone who has already earned a doctoral degree like a PhD. The successful applicant will also require a DBS. Candidates require experience in quantitative and qualitative research methods. They should have proficiency in standard IT applications (Outlook, OneDrive, Word, Excel), strong communication skills and a high level of attention to detail. Experience of working as an academic research assistant (paid or voluntary) would be an advantage. Previous experience working with children in a school setting is also preferable.

The role is a maximum of 30 hours in total (over the period of the project).

Additional information

For informal enquiries please contact Dr Caroline Elbra-Ramsay at [e-mail] .

The selection process will include a brief interview (you are not required to give a presentation). Further details will be provided if you are shortlisted for interview.

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: 01 Nov 2026
Category: Admin & Technical (Including Research vacancies)