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- Tasks: Assist in research on Gaelic Medium Education and its career benefits for school leavers.
- Company: Join the University of the West of Scotland, a leading modern university with a global impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 24 days annual leave, and discounts at 3,500 retailers.
- Why this job: Make a difference in education while gaining valuable research experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Fluent Gaelic speaker with a relevant degree and mixed methods research experience required.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role for 6 months, with potential for extension based on funding.
The University of West of Scotland has an exciting opportunity to join their Social Sciences division on a project exploring senior phase (S4-S6) pupils' perceptions of the career benefits of Gaelic Medium Education (GME) and the impact of this on early career decisions of GME school leavers aged 17-25.
Working closely with the Principal Investigator (PI), Dr Emma Bolger, you will support the PI in data collection in Gaelic and data analysis, writing a literature review with translation to Gaelic and English as well as a final report and other relevant dissemination tools and their translation to Gaelic and English.
This project will carry out a mixed methods research approach which will include qualitative face-to-face focus group interviews conducted with senior phase (S4-6) pupils in GME in several local authorities and a self-administered online survey. The research assistant will be required to recruit and conduct these Gaelic-language focus groups and co-design and recruit participants to surveys. For the focus groups, the proposed locations are Glaschu, Dùn Èideann, Inbhir Nis, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar. Travel time and costs will be incorporated in the job role. The role will require an average of 1 day per week throughout the contract period, but the working days may be undertaken in blocks in line with the role requirements.
The successful candidate should have the following:
- An undergraduate or postgraduate degree in a relevant subject (e.g. social sciences, education, psychology, research methods)
- Mixed methods research experience
- Report writing and other presentation skills
- Experience of leading focus groups
- Fluent Gaelic Speaker
- Ability to write to meet the needs of stakeholders from both professional and academic backgrounds
- Knowledge and understanding of Gaelic Medium Education
- Understanding of robust ethical conduct in research, particularly in relation to research with young people
Applicants should be aware that this role is fully funded externally so is offered as fixed term for 6 months. Any further extension would be considered on the renewal of that external funding.
The University of the West of Scotland is one of Scotland’s largest and most dynamic modern universities. Our reach across the country, together with our London campus, means that UWS is a significant force in global knowledge creation, innovation, and a leading provider of undergraduate, postgraduate and research degree education.
UWS is fully committed to the UK Concordat to support the Career Development of Researchers which sets out clear standards that research staff can expect from the University. It aims to improve the employment and support for research careers in the UK and provides a framework for career development based around the Concordat principles.
We offer our staff a caring and supportive environment, across five campuses, and a competitive benefits package which includes:
- 24 days of annual leave, plus a further 12 days for public/university holidays
- An additional day's leave on your birthday
- Defined benefit contribution pension scheme (including death in service benefits upon joining the scheme)
- A flexible approach to working pattern and work-life balance
- Employee discount scheme across 3,500 retailers
- Fitness facilities across our campuses
- Access to a range of health and wellbeing resources, including occupational health, physiotherapy and access to our Employee Assistance Programme
- Professional, career and research development opportunities.
Closing Date: Thursday 17th April 2025
Interview Date: Wednesday 30th April 2025
The University reserves the right to shorten/extend the closing date of any position where a high/low volume of suitable applications are received. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, an early application would be encouraged.
UWS is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups. UWS is a "Disability Confident" employer.
Research Assistant employer: University of the West of Scotland
Contact Detail:
University of the West of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Gaelic Medium Education (GME) and its impact on career choices. Understanding the nuances of GME will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the project.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of social sciences and education, especially those involved in GME. Engaging with them can provide insights and potentially valuable connections that may aid your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with mixed methods research and focus group facilitation. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led similar projects in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your fluency in Gaelic during any interactions or interviews. Being able to communicate effectively in both Gaelic and English will be a significant advantage for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in mixed methods research and focus group leadership. Emphasise your educational background and any specific skills related to Gaelic Medium Education.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the project. Discuss your understanding of Gaelic Medium Education and how your skills align with the job requirements, particularly your fluency in Gaelic.
Showcase Research Experience: Detail your previous research experience, particularly any work involving qualitative methods or report writing. Provide examples of how you've successfully conducted focus groups or surveys in the past.
Highlight Ethical Understanding: Mention your knowledge of ethical conduct in research, especially when working with young people. This is crucial for the role, so be sure to articulate your commitment to ethical standards in your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of the West of Scotland
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with mixed methods research. Highlight specific projects where you've collected and analysed data, especially if they involved focus groups or surveys.
✨Demonstrate Gaelic Proficiency
Since the role requires fluent Gaelic speaking, practice discussing your research experiences in Gaelic. This will show your comfort with the language and your ability to engage with participants effectively.
✨Understand the Project's Context
Familiarise yourself with Gaelic Medium Education and its significance in Scotland. Being able to articulate your understanding of the topic will impress the interviewers and show your genuine interest in the project.
✨Prepare for Ethical Considerations
Research the ethical guidelines related to conducting research with young people. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure ethical conduct in your role, as this is crucial for the position.
