CASUAL - Doctoral School Research Assistants at Durham University

Durham, England, United Kingdom -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

15 Jul, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

16 Apr, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Research, Data analysis, Communication, Content creation, Office 365, Canva, Organization, Stakeholder management, Project management, Writing, Presentation skills, Teamwork, Attention to detail, Digital platforms

Industry

Higher Education

Description

Doctoral School These roles are open to current Durham University Postgraduates only. The Doctoral School seeks to appoint four research assistants who will play a key role in shaping its development and support its successful launch in August 2026. This is an exciting time to be joining our team. The Doctoral School will officially launch in 2026 to support our diverse community of around 1,500 postgraduate students completing a research degree (PhDs, Masters by Research, Professional Doctorates). Within the University, we will work collaboratively with at least 17 central departments, all 27 academic departments in four Faculties, and the Colleges, to establish a consistent, high-quality approach for postgraduate student experience and support. The posts involve working closely with the Head of the Doctoral School, Doctoral School Manager and Doctoral School Co-Ordinator to co-create key aspects of the School’s governance structures, communications platform and approach, and initial programme of events in the 2026/27 academic year. They will work with a wide range of stakeholders, including students, academic staff, and professional service colleagues from across the university. Successful applicants will work as a team to help take forward the following key strands of Doctoral School initial activity: 1. Co-develop governance, terms of reference, and an operational approach for the Doctoral School Student Voice Committee (launching 2026/27): Contribute to drafting the Committee’s purpose, membership structure, and decision-making processes. Support the creation of documentation outlining roles, expectations, and channels for escalation and feedback. Work with the Doctoral School team to research and design mechanisms for collecting, analysing, and responding to PGR concerns raised through the Committee. Assist in shaping the Committee’s identity and position as a constructive ‘critical friend’ to the Doctoral School. 2. Develop student-led role descriptors for departmental PGR representatives: Consult with current PGR reps, staff, and student groups to understand and analyse existing practices and expectations. Draft clear, accessible descriptors outlining responsibilities, communication pathways, reporting obligations, and support structures. Following analysis, recommend frameworks to foster collaboration across departments and encourage consistent representation. Propose communication and induction materials that help future reps understand and perform their roles effectively. 3. Develop accurate, engaging, and accessible content for the Doctoral School’s Sharepoint site and external web pages: Audit existing materials and identify content gaps or areas requiring revision. Draft written and visual content tailored for prospective and current PGRs, as well as academic and professional services staff. Ensure materials are accessible, are easy to navigate, and aligned with the Doctoral School’s tone of voice and Durham University brand guidelines. Work with colleagues to ensure information is accurate and reflects institutional policies and processes. 4. Develop the programme for the Doctoral School launch event (Sept/Oct 2026) and the 2026/27 events calendar: Contribute to designing a launch event that showcases the Doctoral School’s purpose, analysing student and staff requirements, and highlight its role in building PGR community. Identify themes and topics for workshops, social events, networking sessions, and development opportunities that respond to and meet PGR needs. Draft communications and promotional materials designed to maximise awareness and engagement. Hours and Place of Work The roles are for 6 hours per week, for 12 weeks, commencing 4 May 2026 until 31 July 2026. The roles will involve hybrid working and we expect some of proportion of the work to be conducted from the Doctoral School office in the Palatine Centre. At least 1 day in each month will be dedicated to in-person team working to encourage collaboration, training and mentoring between the interns and the Doctoral School team. By arrangement and agreement, we encourage all four interns to work the same day in the week for consistency in the project delivery and time management. The below role descriptor seeks to capture the main requirements of the role consistently, providing a summary of the key duties of the flexible role to help in setting expectations for applicants, flexible workers and line managers. They are not intended to cover all duties which may be required. Role Responsibilities Research Assistant Grade 6 · Undertake research as appropriate to the field of study including conducting literature reviews, collecting and analysing data · Maintain accurate records of interviews, safeguarding the confidentiality of subjects, as necessary · Provide ready access to all experimental data for the faculty researcher and/or supervisor · Prepare other articles, reports, and presentations · Manage and respond to project related email. · Attend project meetings, seminars and other meetings as necessary Essential Requirements Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Proficient user of IT packages (including Office 365) and digital platforms. Innovation and creativity to develop new, engaging, accessible content (including the use of Canva or similar design software). Good research and analysis skills, with an ability to conduct desk-based research. Excellent organisation skills and the ability to pay close attention to detail. Ability to quickly establish effective working relationships with stakeholders across the University. Ability to prioritise and organise a busy workload Ability to work effectively as part of a team and on own initiative. Willingness/ability to work remotely or on campus. Desirable Requirements An interest in and awareness of UK HEI postgraduate research landscape. Knowledge of University structures and stakeholders. How to Apply Please upload a CV and covering letter showing how you meet the requirements of the role. We particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, including but not limited to people who identify as being from racially and ethnically minoritised backgrounds, people with a disability, and other groups who are currently under-represented. For further information about the internships or to arrange an informal discussion please contact: David Lowther, Head of the Doctoral School (david.a.lowther@durham.ac.uk) Closing date for applications: 11:59pm 26 April 2026 Interviews Interviews will be held during the week beginning 27 April 2026 (date and times to be confirmed).

Responsibilities

The research assistants will co-create governance structures, communication platforms, and event programs for the new Doctoral School. They will also conduct research, analyze data, and draft content to support the postgraduate research community.