Research Assistant

Reference
1094854

Branch
Middlesex University

Start date
05/05/2025

Duration
Ongoing

Hours and days
50 hours per project Hours and Dates agreed with Project Leader

Dress code
Smart Casual

Rate of pay
£17.20

Holiday rate
£2.08

Role

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our team for the "Invisible Immigrant Food Entrepreneurs" project, funded by Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF 2024-25).  

This role involves conducting comprehensive research on immigrant food entrepreneurs who contribute significantly to the London economy and cultural diversity. The successful candidate will work closely with project leads to gather, analyse, and present data.

The role will be held by a graduate, postgraduate or post-doctoral researcher.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of this role is to support the research project by collecting, analysing and disseminating data on immigrant food entrepreneurs. The Research Assistant will help uncover the challenges and successes of these entrepreneurs, providing valuable insights that can inform policy recommendations and community support initiatives.

Duties and responsibilities

Research and knowledge transfer

• Work closely with Project Leads and other team members to ensure the research objectives are met.
• Participate in regular team meetings and contribute to project planning and development.
• Collect qualitative and quantitative data from various resources, including field observations and secondary data.
• Undertake literature reviews and contribute to the production of research reports, conference papers, and peer-reviewed journals where appropriate.
• To liaise with project partners internally and externally to support the delivery of the research project and knowledge exchange events.
• Continually update own knowledge in the field of specialism.

Administration

• Support Project Leads and the research team with the coordination of research activity, as agreed.
• Provide administrative support to the project to include but not limited to note taking, organisation of events and dissemination of information to stakeholders.

Skills and experience

Essential requirements

• A Master's degree or higher in a relevant field (e.g., Sociology, Anthropology, Business, Food Studies) is preferred.
• Understanding of research methods and research design.
• Experience of using a variety of research methods and data analysis techniques.
• Proven computer literacy in standard office software applications.
• Evidence of work directly relevant to supporting the production of research reports within an academic environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively within a team and externally, in writing and orally.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to organise and coordinate a number of activities simultaneously.
• Demonstrable commitment to fairness and the principles of equality and inclusion.

Desired requirements

• A Master's degree or higher in a relevant field (e.g., Sociology, Anthropology, Business, Food Studies) is preferred.
• Previous experience in conducting research, particularly in the areas of immigrant entrepreneurship, food businesses, or related fields.
• Proficiency in multiple languages, especially those spoken by immigrant communities, to facilitate effective communication during interviews and surveys.
• Strong understanding and sensitivity towards diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences.

Location
Hendon

Additional information

Interested candidates should submit a CV, cover letter, and a previous project output by 22th April 23:59.

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