At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful research on school admissions reform and engage with diverse communities.
- Company: Join a collaborative team at the University of Sussex and partner institutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible part-time hours, and valuable research experience.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a difference in educational equity while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: Doctorate in relevant field and experience in qualitative and quantitative research.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 46049 £ per year.
Location: Brighton, UK
Hours: Part time of 0.8 FTE / 30 hours per week.
Grade: 7 starting at £38,784 to £46,049 per annum, pro rata if part time.
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract
About the role:
As a postdoctoral research fellow, you will be embedded in a supportive team of researchers from the University of Sussex, the University of Exeter, and University College London Institute of Education. The project evaluates a recent reform to secondary school admissions procedures in Brighton and Hove, funded by the Education Endowment Foundation. Based at the University of Sussex, you will work closely with Dr Matthew Easterbrook (University of Sussex) and Dr Sara Bragg (UCL Institute of Education) using qualitative and quantitative research methods.
School admissions criteria in England determine which students are allocated places. In 2024, Brighton & Hove City Council introduced a new criterion that gives priority to all students in the city eligible for free‑school meals, above those in the local catchment area of the school, up to a quota. This is the first large‑scale implementation of a policy designed to promote more equitable access to schools by young people from under‑resourced backgrounds. A six‑year impact evaluation will assess whether this reform results in changes to GCSE outcomes for students. A shorter three‑year process evaluation will run alongside the impact evaluation, exploring the perspectives of schools, parents, and students. It will use mixed methods – qualitative interviews, observations, document analyses, and quantitative analyses of surveys and secondary data – to evaluate:
- how the reform was implemented and communicated by BHCC
- whether the reform is associated with changes in school funding, climate, and outcomes, and how schools adapt to these changes
- how the reform was understood and received by students, parents, teachers, and school leaders
As a research fellow on this project, you will oversee the day‑to‑day running of the process evaluation, including liaising with BHCC; communicating with, recruiting, and interviewing parents, school leaders, and school students; analysing qualitative data; analysing policy documents; conducting observations; implementing and analysing quantitative student surveys; and writing reports.
About you:
Typically, you will have (or be about to complete) a doctorate in psychology, sociology, education, or a related field, and have experience of conducting qualitative interviews, managing datasets, and performing quantitative data analyses. You will have gained insights into issues of equity in education and the role of policy in promoting change. You will have demonstrated a capacity for conducting high‑quality research and an emerging record of high‑quality publications. You will have excellent communication skills, and ideally experience communicating with teachers, young people, and under‑resourced communities.
Requirements:
- Doctorate in psychology, sociology, education, or a related field
- Experience in qualitative interviews, data management, and quantitative analysis
- Knowledge of educational equity and policy impacts
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Additional Information:
The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. The role is a Fixed Term Contract, and work must be performed in the UK. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship due to its part‑time nature. If you are experiencing any issues using our application portal or if you require adjustments to the selection process, please contact us at (01273) 873743 or recruitmentadministration@sussex.ac.uk to discuss your requirements.
Postdoctoral Research Fellow Ref: 43694 (Fixed Term, Part Time) in Brighton employer: Brighton and Sussex Medical School
The University of Sussex is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work environment that fosters research excellence and innovation. As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, you will benefit from a supportive team, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to contribute to meaningful educational reforms in Brighton. With a commitment to diversity and equity, the university provides a unique platform for impactful research that aims to improve access to education for under-resourced communities.
Contact Details:
Brighton and Sussex Medical School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Fellow Ref: 43694 (Fixed Term, Part Time) in Brighton
✨Utilise University Networks
Let’s make the most of those university psych societies! Engage with fellow students and professors, as they often have insider info about part-time roles in the field of psychology. Plus, don’t forget to tap into career fairs – local organisations are always on the lookout for fresh talent!
✨Get Involved in Research Projects
Dive into research opportunities within your department or nearby psychology labs. Not only will this enhance your CV, but it’s also a fantastic way to meet professionals in the field who might know of part-time positions that aren’t advertised widely.
✨Showcase Your Passion Online
Create a public portfolio or a blog that showcases your thoughts on psychological topics. Sharing your insights online, perhaps on platforms like Medium, can help you get noticed by potential employers who are looking for passionate part-time psychologists.
✨Apply Directly on Brighton and Sussex Medical School's Website
When you spot part-time roles like the Postdoctoral Research Fellow Ref: 43694 (Fixed Term, Part Time) at Brighton and Sussex Medical School, make sure you apply directly on their website! This not only shows your interest but can also help you stand out as a proactive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Fellow Ref: 43694 (Fixed Term, Part Time) in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a part-time role in psychology, make sure to showcase any relevant experience you’ve got. This could be placements, volunteer work, or even insightful coursework. Show us how your background has prepared you for this specific position at Brighton and Sussex Medical School!
Demonstrate Your Communication Skills:Communication is key in psychology! Use your CV and cover letter to illustrate how you’ve effectively communicated complex ideas or worked with diverse groups. This could be through presentations, group projects, or any mentoring roles you've held—let us see those skills shine!
Tailor Your Personal Statement:In your cover letter, don’t just tell us why you want this role at Brighton and Sussex Medical School; dive into your passion for psychology! Mention specific areas of interest or any unique insights you've gained during your studies that relate to what we do. This shows us that you’re not just looking for any part-time job, but that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact.
Keep Your Availability Clear:Since this is a part-time position, it's super important to be transparent about your availability. In your application, include the days and times you're free to work. This helps us understand how well you can fit into our team at Brighton and Sussex Medical School—and makes scheduling a breeze!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brighton and Sussex Medical School
✨Show Off Your Understanding of Psychological Concepts
When chatting with Brighton and Sussex Medical School, make sure to highlight your grasp of key psychological theories and frameworks. Be ready to discuss their application in real-world scenarios, perhaps how you've tackled cases during your studies or placements. This is your chance to show them you're not just book-smart but also practical!
✨Be Prepared for Role-Playing or Case Studies
In psychology roles, especially part-time gigs, you might face some role-plays or case study scenarios during the interview. Don't shy away from demonstrating your thought process! Practicing your responses to hypothetical situations can help showcase your analytical skills and empathy, which are crucial in this field.
✨Discuss Your Availability and Flexibility
Since this role is part-time, it’s essential to be upfront about your availability. Highlight any flexibility you have during certain days or hours, as this can be a big plus for Brighton and Sussex Medical School. Showing that you're adaptable will signal that you’re keen to fit in with their schedule.
✨Prepare Specific Questions About Their Approach
Demonstrating genuine interest in Brighton and Sussex Medical School will set you apart! Come prepared with questions about their therapy methods, client demographics, or team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if their values align with your own – a win-win situation!
