At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to work on exciting research projects and develop your skills.
- Company: AQA, a leader in education with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development, generous leave, and health support.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and mentoring.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education while building your career.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree in relevant fields and experience in research methods.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Researcher – 12 month fixed term contract (Manchester or Guildford). This role supports a growing Research and Evaluation team focused on digital, vocational and general qualifications. The successful candidate will work on 2 to 3 live research projects, collaborating with experienced researchers and project leads, and will have the opportunity to develop their research skills under the support of senior staff.
Responsibilities
- Work across 2 to 3 live research projects, collaborating with experienced researchers and project leads.
- Carry out literature reviews, collect and analyse qualitative and quantitative data, and turn findings into clear, meaningful insights.
- Contribute to reports, presentations and research outputs shared both internally and externally.
- Get involved in school visits, observations and surveys to bring research to life.
- Present your work at conferences, seminars and events, building your confidence and professional profile.
- Work autonomously while being supported as part of a collaborative team environment.
Qualifications
- A Master’s degree (completed or in progress) in education, psychology, social sciences or a related field.
- Experience using qualitative and/or quantitative research methods.
- Strong communication skills, able to explain research clearly to different audiences.
- A collaborative mindset and the ability to manage your own work.
- Curiosity and critical thinking about how assessments work and their wider impact.
- Experience of using R would be beneficial.
- Knowledge of postgraduate-level qualitative or quantitative research methods for the social sciences.
- Demonstrable ability to communicate research findings to a range of stakeholders in written and spoken formats.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Experience of contributing to applied research in an academic or commercial setting (desirable).
Benefits
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on education while growing your career.
- Professional development, training and mentoring support.
- Benefits package: up to 11.5% pension contribution, BUPA health‑care support, wellbeing programmes and volunteering opportunities.
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service, and discretionary Christmas closure days.
Diversity and inclusion
At AQA, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is valued, respected and supported to thrive. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
Researcher in Guildford employer: AQA Recruiting
AQA is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and supportive work environment in Manchester or Guildford for researchers eager to make a meaningful impact on education. With a strong focus on professional development, generous benefits including up to 11.5% pension contribution and BUPA health-care support, as well as a commitment to diversity and inclusion, AQA provides an enriching experience for employees looking to grow their careers while contributing to vital research projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Researcher in Guildford
✨Leverage University Connections
If you're still at uni or have recently graduated, tap into your university's career services and research departments. They often have leads on temporary research roles, internships, or projects that haven’t been widely advertised yet!
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Join online forums and local meetups specific to your research area. Platforms like ResearchGate or specific Facebook groups can be goldmines for finding short-term research opportunities and connecting with fellow researchers who might know of openings.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a professional portfolio showcasing your research work or projects. This doesn’t have to be fancy; a simple website or a well-organised LinkedIn profile can make you stand out to potential employers like AQA Recruiting.
✨Apply through Our Website!
Remember to check out the openings on our website. Applying directly for roles like the Researcher at AQA Recruiting shows your enthusiasm and makes you more visible to hiring managers.
We think you need these skills to ace Researcher in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Research Skills:For a temporary role in scientific research, it’s key to highlight your hands-on experience and skills. Use your CV to detail any relevant projects or experiments you’ve worked on, showcasing your problem-solving abilities and techniques you've mastered. Don’t forget to mention any lab techniques or tools that you’re familiar with – this can really set you apart!
Highlight Your Adaptability:Since this is a temporary position, employers like AQA Recruiting will want to see that you can hit the ground running. In your cover letter, emphasise your ability to quickly grasp new concepts and fit in with diverse teams. Give examples of past experiences where you had to adapt swiftly, as it shows you’re ready for any challenges the research might throw at you.
Academic Credentials Matter:Make sure your academic background shines through, especially any relevant degrees, certifications, or publications. If you’ve been involved in conducting research, definitely bring that up! It’s important to demonstrate your theoretical foundations and any formal recognitions you've received in the scientific field.
Include References from Previous Researchers:Having strong references can make all the difference in a temporary role in scientific research. If you can, include references from previous supervisors or professors who can vouch for your research capabilities and work ethic. This adds credibility to your application and gives AQA Recruiting assurance of your skills and professional behaviour.
How to prepare for a job interview at AQA Recruiting
✨Understand the Research Landscape
Dive deep into the specific area of scientific research that AQA Recruiting focuses on. Whether it's biotech or environmental sciences, familiarise yourself with recent publications and breakthroughs. This shows that you're not just interested in the role, but you're genuinely engaged with the field.
✨Don't Skip the Technical Skills
As a temporary hire, you might be expected to hit the ground running. Be ready to discuss specific techniques or tools you’ve used, like statistical software or lab equipment. Practise explaining your experience in a clear, structured way so the interviewers can grasp your skills right away.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Temporary roles often require us to adapt quickly to new protocols and projects. Be prepared to share examples of how you've managed shifting priorities or learned new methodologies on the fly. This will help demonstrate that you're a quick learner who can contribute immediately.
✨Bring Your Best Work to the Table
Even if this is a temporary gig, showcase any relevant projects or research you've completed. If you have a portfolio, make it succinct yet impactful. Showcasing tangible results can leave a lasting impression on the interviewers at AQA Recruiting.
