Location
Stratford Campus, University of East London (with community outreach across east London)

Hours
Part Time - 14 hours per week (0.5 FTE, approximately 21 hours per week)

Salary
£39,824 to £45,281 per annum inclusive of London Weighting

Contract
Fixed Term – 18 months

About the Role
The University of East London (UEL) is a careers-led, forward-thinking institution committed to making a positive impact on students, graduates and the communities it serves. As one of the most diverse universities in London, UEL conducts research that addresses real-world challenges and informs policy at national and international levels.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join the Centre for Health Equity and Sustainable Societies (CHESS) Evaluation Unit within the Institute for Connected Communities. The Evaluation Unit conducts applied research at the intersection of health, education and community wellbeing, leading rigorous, participatory evaluations of complex programmes that generate evidence which is actionable, equitable and grounded in lived experience.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the evaluation of the East London Primary Care Education Centre (ELPCEC), an 18-month pilot programme bringing together education, health and skills pathways for young people who are NEET, neurodiverse or facing multiple disadvantages. The post holder will work closely with Dr Darren Sharpe, Director of CHESS, and the wider programme team, engaging directly with young people, partner organisations and community settings across east London.

Key responsibilities include supporting the design and delivery of a participatory evaluation framework, developing accessible surveys, interview guides and creative research tools; recruiting, training and supporting young people as co-researchers; facilitating creative and participatory research activities; supporting qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis including thematic analysis and review of monitoring data; managing participant data, anonymisation and secure data storage in line with GDPR; drafting research documentation such as participant information sheets, consent forms and topic guides; supporting safeguarding protocols and risk assessment procedures; preparing evaluation briefings, reports and policy-relevant outputs; and liaising with partner organisations, schools and community organisations across Newham, Hackney and Tower Hamlets.

Interviews will be held remotely via Microsoft Teams.

Experience
Background in youth work and direct experience of participatory and creative research methods. Existing knowledge of, and relationships within, youth-facing work in north or east London is highly desirable.

About you
Highly motivated and committed to working with young people and vulnerable groups. Able to engage effectively with diverse communities and partner organisations. Strong organisational skills and attention to detail. Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications
Due to the involvement of young people and vulnerable groups, the successful candidate will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.