Research Assistant - When Does an Analogy Become a Model?

Manchester Metropolitan University; Greater Manchester; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

Manchester Metropolitan University invites applications for a Student Research Assistant within the Manchester School of Architecture. The role focuses on mapping analogical models in architectural theory and supporting literature reviews, material organisation, and development of an analytical framework.

Early October 2026 to Early October 2027, 6 hours per week (300 hours total) at the Manchester Technology Centre.

Qualifications

• Must have genuine interest in architectural theory, design research, and philosophy of science.
• Strong ability to read, interpret and summarise complex theoretical texts.
• Excellent written communication and organisational skills.
• Ability to manage tasks independently and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Conduct targeted literature searches and review sources for the project.
• Organise research materials and contribute to developing an analytical framework.
• Identify and document analogical models within architectural theory.
• Assist in the development, testing and mapping of the analytical framework.
• Support preparation of visual maps and outputs and help run workshops.

Skills

Analytical reading

Literature review

Organisational skills

Independent worker

Communication skills

Job description

Job Description

The current opportunity is available for current Manchester Met students, to apply you must be based in the UK for the duration of the role.

The Manchester School of Architecture is seeking a motivated and inquisitive Student Research Assistant to support the research project When Does an Analogy Become a Model? Mapping Analogical Models in Architectural Theory.

Architectural theory has often drawn upon ideas from other disciplines to explain and understand the built environment. As a result, buildings and cities have been described using concepts such as organisms, machines, languages and systems. However, it is not always clear when these comparisons remain rhetorical devices and when they become more structured tools for generating knowledge and understanding.

This project explores the question: When does an analogy become a model? Through the development of a methodological framework, the research aims to identify and analyse analogical models within architectural theory. A pilot study will investigate how selected analogies are organised, the types of reasoning they enable, the assumptions that underpin them, and the limitations of these relationships.

Working closely with the project lead, the successful candidate will contribute to the literature review, organisation of research materials, development of an analytical framework, and creation of a pilot mapping exercise.

This role would be particularly suited to students with an interest in architectural and design theory, cybernetics, philosophy of science, research methods, and the study of models, metaphors and analogical reasoning.

Dates: Early October 2026 to Early October 2027

Hours: 6 hours per week (300 hours across the duration of the project). Working hours may vary in line with project activity.

Location: Manchester Technology Centre

The Student Research Assistant will support a range of research activities, including:

• Conducting targeted searches for relevant academic literature.
• Reviewing and analysing selected sources in relation to the project's research questions.
• Identifying, documenting and categorising analogical models within architectural theory.
• Assisting in the development and testing of a coding and analytical framework.
• Comparing the use and function of recurring analogies across case studies.
• Contributing to the preparation of visual maps and research outputs.
• Supporting the planning, delivery and documentation of research workshops and focus groups.

The balance of responsibilities may evolve as the project develops and will be agreed with the successful candidate.

Person Specification

This opportunity is open to current Manchester Met students only. Applicants should demonstrate the following:

Essential Criteria

• A genuine interest in architectural theory, architectural history, design research, cybernetics, and/or the philosophy of science.
• Strong analytical reading skills, with the ability to understand, interpret and accurately summarise complex theoretical texts.
• Good written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and concisely.
• Excellent organisational skills, including the ability to maintain accurate and well-structured research records.
• The ability to work independently, manage priorities effectively, and complete agreed tasks within set deadlines.
• A high level of attention to detail, particularly when recording references, bibliographic information, and research data.
• A willingness to engage in discussion, reflect on feedback, and refine work as part of an iterative research process.

Desirable Criteria

• Previous experience supporting academic research, including literature reviews or qualitative research projects.
• Familiarity with concepts relating to models, metaphors, analogical reasoning, systems thinking, or cybernetics.
• Experience using graphic design or visual communication tools to present information and research findings.

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