Research Assistant

at  University of Glasgow

JOB PURPOSE

We are looking for an enthusiastic researcher with experience of applying qualitative systems science (e.g. systems thinking, group model building, process tracing, contribution analysis, future analysis methods) to public health, social policy and environmental sustainability research.
In the first instance, the candidate will contribute to two large-scale interdisciplinary research programmes: GALLANT is a £10.2 Million NERC-funded research programme that works closely with Glasgow City Council and other partners to help maximise health and social equity co-benefits from climate solutions implemented during the transition to NetZero (i.e. policies in the “just transition” space). The post holder will be co-producing research with our policy and practice partners, with a focus on understanding policy levers, opportunities, and anticipating the intended and unintended effects of policies under consideration. In the year, the postholder will also have the opportunity to contribute to SIPHER, which focuses on the health equity impacts of policies that affect people’s income and housing. SIPHER is in its final year of funding, so the focus is on supporting the delivery of research that is currently underway, and the production of policy-facing and formal academic outputs. Further information on both programmes is provided at the bottom of the Job Description.
You will have a strong background in systems approaches and significant experience of communicating research findings to a range of academic and non-academic audiences. You will be able to demonstrate interest in and awareness of the nexus of climate change, health inequalities and/or social justice issues and will have engaged with practitioners or decision-makers in applied policy contexts
The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to the formulation and submission of research publications and research proposals as well as help manage and direct these complex and challenging projects as opportunities allow.
This fixed-term post will be line managed by Prof Petra Meier, SIPHER Director and GALLANT co-lead. Informal enquiries are welcome: petra.meier@glasgow.ac.uk

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Perform the following activities in conjunction with and under the guidance of the Principal/Co Investigator:
1. Contribute to qualitative research that seeks to understand the systemic impacts of environmental and social policy options, especially health and wellbeing outcomes, including inequalities.
2. Contribute to applied and methodological research into the links between changing health, environmental, social and economic systems.
3. Produce and document research outputs that support policy decision making, including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records and databases, drafting technical/progress reports and papers as appropriate.
4. Develop and enhance your research profile and reputation and that of The University of Glasgow/School/Research Group, including contributing to publications of international quality in high profile/quality refereed journals, enhancing the research impact in terms of economic/societal benefit, and gathering indicators of esteem.
5. Contribute to the presentation of work at international and national conferences, at internal and external seminars, colloquia and workshops to develop and enhance our research profile.
6. Contribute to the identification of potential funding sources and to assist in the development of proposals to secure funding from internal and external bodies to support future research.
7. Collaborate with colleagues and participate in team/ group/ meetings/ seminars/ workshops across the research Group/School/College/University and wider community (partner organisations/stakeholders).
8. Contribute to the organisation, supervision, mentoring and training of undergraduate and/or postgraduate students and less experienced members of the project team to ensure their effective development.
9. Perform administrative tasks related to the activities of the research group and School, including Budgets/Expenditure.
10. Engage non-academic audiences in or with your research – as partners, participants, collaborators and research users.
11. Contribute to the Unit’s public engagement and knowledge exchange activities to ensure research evidence reaches and influences a broad range of stakeholders.
12. Keep up to date with current knowledge and recent advances in the field/discipline.
13. Engage in continuing professional development activities as appropriate, in particular seeking to expand existing methods skills.
14. Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the Head of School/Director of Research Institute/Line manager.
15. Contribute to the enhancement of the University’s international profile in line with the University’s Strategic Plan, World Changers Together.