Research Assistant in Computing Education
Research Assistant in Computing Education

Research Assistant in Computing Education

Cambridge Part-Time 24000 - 36000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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Cambridge Service Alliance

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join the EPICS project to collect and analyse data on primary school pupils' attitudes towards physical computing.
  • Company: University of Cambridge, renowned for its innovative research in computer science and technology.
  • Benefits: Part-time role with a competitive salary and a 2.5% pay supplement.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in computing education while working with passionate researchers.
  • Qualifications: Experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods, especially with primary-aged pupils.
  • Other info: Flexible part-time position with opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative environment.

The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

The Department of Computer Science and Technology is an academic department that encompasses computer science along with many aspects of engineering, technology and mathematics. We have a worldwide reputation for academic research with consistent top research ratings. The Department has an open and collaborative culture, supporting revolutionary fundamental computer science research, strong cross-cutting collaborations internally and externally, and ideas which transform computing outside the University. Please follow the link at: to find out more about our department.

We would like to appoint a part-time research assistant (0.2 FTE) in computing education to work for one day per week on the Exploring Physical Computing in Schools (EPICS) project, which is part of the Raspberry Pi Computing Education Research Centre (RPCERC) in the Department of Computer Science and Technology of the University of Cambridge.

The Exploring Physical Computing in Schools (EPICS) project is a five-year, longitudinal, mixed-methods project investigating primary school pupils\’ attitudes and beliefs about physical computing across the UK. More information can be found online:

The position involves working on data collection, data analysis and writing up as part of the EPICS project team. This will include conducting interviews, cleaning and analysis of transcripts, and collection and analysis of a large-scale survey.

The successful candidate should have prior experience of qualitative and quantitative research methods in the context of computing education, experience of research with primary-aged pupils and their teachers, and knowledge of physical computing. An understanding of models of creativity and making will be a distinct advantage. Further details of the essential skills for the role can be found in the further particulars.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check (enhanced with children\’s barred list).

Please note that in addition to the base salary stated, the successful candidate for this post will receive an additional 2.5% supplement to their pay.

Click the \’Apply\’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference NR47677 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. Please note we provide support of applying for the relevant visa (if required) and reimbursement for the cost of the first visa.

Apply online

Research Assistant in Computing Education employer: Cambridge Service Alliance

The University of Cambridge offers a dynamic and inclusive work environment, particularly within the Department of Computer Science and Technology, renowned for its collaborative culture and commitment to groundbreaking research. As a part-time Research Assistant in Computing Education, you will have the opportunity to contribute to innovative projects like EPICS, while benefiting from professional development and a supportive atmosphere that values diversity and creativity.
Cambridge Service Alliance

Contact Detail:

Cambridge Service Alliance Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Computing Education

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the department. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and the team culture, plus it shows your genuine interest.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the EPICS project. Familiarise yourself with their research methods and findings. This will help us demonstrate our passion and knowledge during the conversation.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your skills! Bring examples of your previous research work, especially anything related to qualitative and quantitative methods in computing education. We want to highlight how our experience aligns with what they’re looking for.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us on their radar and show our enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it’s just good manners!

We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Computing Education

Qualitative Research Methods
Quantitative Research Methods
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Interviewing Skills
Transcription Cleaning
Survey Analysis
Experience with Primary-Aged Pupils
Knowledge of Physical Computing
Understanding of Creativity Models
Collaboration Skills
Communication Skills
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods, especially in computing education. We want to see how your background aligns with the EPICS project and the skills mentioned in the job description.

Showcase Relevant Experience: Don’t forget to mention any previous work with primary-aged pupils and their teachers. If you’ve got experience in physical computing or models of creativity, make that shine through! We love seeing how your past experiences can contribute to our team.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your passion for computing education comes across clearly. Remember, less is often more!

Follow the Application Process: Make sure to apply through our website and quote reference NR47677 in your application. It’s super important for us to keep track of applications, so don’t skip this step! We’re excited to see what you bring to the table.

How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge Service Alliance

✨Know Your Research Methods

Make sure you brush up on both qualitative and quantitative research methods, as these are crucial for the role. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences with data collection and analysis, especially in the context of computing education.

✨Familiarise Yourself with EPICS

Dive deep into the Exploring Physical Computing in Schools (EPICS) project. Understand its goals, methodologies, and significance in the field. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you answer questions more effectively.

✨Engage with Creativity Models

Since knowledge of models of creativity and making is a distinct advantage, be prepared to discuss how these concepts relate to physical computing. Think of examples from your past work or studies that illustrate your understanding.

✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios

Expect to be asked about real-life scenarios involving primary-aged pupils and their teachers. Prepare some anecdotes or case studies that highlight your experience and how you’ve successfully navigated challenges in educational settings.

Research Assistant in Computing Education
Cambridge Service Alliance
Location: Cambridge
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