At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct literature reviews and analyse data to support children's social care research.
- Company: Join Cardiff University's CASCADE Centre, a vibrant hub for social sciences.
- Benefits: Enjoy 45 days annual leave, flexible working, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team that values diversity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's social care while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: Ideal for those with a passion for research and data analysis.
The predicted salary is between 33951 - 36636 £ per year.
Cardiff University School of Social Sciences is seeking to recruit a Research Assistant to work within the Children's Social Care Research and Development Centre (CASCADE), Research Centre that is located within the School.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct a rapid literature review
- Prepare and analyse administrative data sets housed within the SAIL Databank
- Administrative tasks
Employment Terms:
- Part-time, 60% (21 hours per week), fixed-term from 1st September 2026 until 31st July 2027.
- Salary: £33,951 - £36,636 per annum, pro-rata (Grade 5), with annual increments up to final salary at top of grade.
- Responsible to Professor Donald Forrester, CASCADE Centre Director.
For an informal discussion about the role please contact Donald Forrester at Donald.ForsterD@cardiff.ac.uk or Tel +44 29206 88724.
From the 1st August 2026 the School of Social Sciences and the School of Geography and Planning will come together to create the new School of Social and Spatial Sciences, building on and strengthening existing interdisciplinary research and education.
Benefits:
- 45 days annual leave, pro-rata for part-time workers (including bank holidays)
- Blended working (meaning you will be able to work from home for some of your time)
- Cycle to work scheme
- Other travel initiatives
- Annual increments up the pay scale
It is an exciting and vibrant place to work, with many different challenges and is a proud Living Wage supporter.
Equality and Diversity:
Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds. We therefore welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age. We especially welcome and encourage applications from those under-represented groups within the University workforce, such as those who identify as LGBT+, Ethnic Minority or those with disabilities.
In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.
Responsible Research Assessment:
Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), which means that in hiring and promotion decisions we will evaluate applicants on the quality of their research, not publication metrics or the identity of the journal in which the research is published.
Date advert posted: Wednesday, 29 July 2026
Closing date: Wednesday, 12 August 2026
Research Assistant, CASCADE in Cardiff employer: Cardiff University
Cardiff University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the realm of international research. With a strong commitment to employee development and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, staff are encouraged to grow their careers while contributing to impactful global partnerships. Located in the vibrant city of Cardiff, employees benefit from a rich cultural scene and a supportive community, making it an ideal place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant, CASCADE in Cardiff
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Cardiff University, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Cardiff University. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Cardiff University's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant, CASCADE in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Cardiff University. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Cardiff University.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cardiff University
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Cardiff University.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Research Assistant, CASCADE at Cardiff University.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Cardiff University that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Research Assistant, CASCADE role.
