Research Associate (Active Travel Academy)

The University of Westminster; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 46,000; Part time

Job summary

A reputable UK university is seeking a part-time qualitative researcher to join their interdisciplinary team. You will support two projects focused on travel behavior and climate adaptation in London. Responsibilities include conducting interviews and workshops, as well as contributing to academic outputs. Applicants should have experience in qualitative research and engaging diverse communities. Competitive salary and commitment to diversity and inclusion offered.

Qualifications

• Experience in conducting interviews and focus groups.
• Familiarity with participatory research techniques.
• Ability to communicate with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Support qualitative team with stakeholder engagement.
• Conduct interviews and workshops with various groups.
• Contribute to academic articles and project reports.

Skills

Co-production methods expertise

Walking and urban greening knowledge

Qualitative research methods

Job description

This post is part-time, 31.5 hours per week and fixed term for 8 months. The salary stated above is the pro-rata amount, the full-time salary would be £40,518 - £45,899 (Incl. LWA).

The Active Travel Academy, a research centre based at the University of Westminster is looking for a qualitative researcher to join our interdisciplinary team and support us delivering two new exciting projects.

1. A mixed-methods longitudinal project, Travel-Well. This is a 5-year mixed methods study to assess how new cycling infrastructure affects people's travel behaviour, health and wellbeing in three English regions (Greater Manchester, West Midlands, West Yorkshire).

2. A participatory project in collaboration with the climate change action charity. Possible, titled Get Shady, working with residents in London climate vulnerable neighbourhoods on walkability, urban greening, trees, and climate adaptation.

The researcher will work with the qualitative team delivering both projects.

For Travel-Well, the researcher will support the team in liaising with stakeholders and setting the context for the team to conduct interviews, focus groups and workshops with new cyclists and members of marginalised communities in the region. For Get-Shady, the researcher will support the team in designing, delivering and analysing a series of participatory workshops with residents in different London Districts. The researcher will be involved in wider aspects of the projects, contributing to subsequent academic articles and reports. We welcome expertise in co-production methods, including photovoice and action research.

To apply for this vacancy please click above. Further information can be found in the job description and person specification, which can be accessed through link below.

At the University of Westminster, diversity, inclusion and equality of opportunity are at the core of how we engage with students, colleagues, applicants, visitors and all our stakeholders.

We are fully committed to enabling a supportive and safe learning and working environment which is equitable, diverse and inclusive, is based on mutual respect and trust, and in which harassment and discrimination are neither tolerated nor acceptable.

The University has adopted Smart Working principles to support and further our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion aims of being an inclusive, collaborative and flexible employer. Further details of Smart Working can be discussed at interview stage.

Closing date: midnight on 31 August 2025

Interviews are likely to be held on 09 September 2025

Administrative contact (for queries only): [e-mail]