At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to conduct impactful research for vulnerable children and young people.
- Company: Coram, the UK's first children's charity, dedicated to making a difference since 1739.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 25+ days annual leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive environment welcoming diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives through meaningful research and evaluation.
- Qualifications: Passion for research, strong organisational skills, and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 28000 € per year.
Is this the role you are looking for? If so, read on for more details, and make sure to apply today.
Contract: 12-months fixed term
Work pattern: Full time or 0.8 FTE (for flexible working, including term time working)
Salary: £28,000 per annum (or pro rata)
Location: Flexible, with an expectation of working at Coram’s campus in London on average at least once a week and homeworking.
We are looking for someone who is passionate about using their research and evaluation skills to join our growing Research Impact and Evaluation team as a Research Assistant to help improve support for vulnerable children and young people, and ultimately make a positive difference in their lives.
About Coram and the team: Coram is the UK’s first and longest continuing children’s charity established in 1739 as The Foundling Hospital. Today we are a group of specialist organisations, working in the UK and around the world to support vulnerable children and young people from infancy to independence, creating positive change that lasts a lifetime. Coram helps more than one million children, young people, families and professionals every year by providing access to the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.
This role will be based in Coram’s Research Impact and Evaluation team within Coram’s Institute for Children and will focus on delivering research projects and evaluations, both externally commissioned or within the Coram group. The role offers exciting opportunities to build links with economists, statisticians, academics, and researchers to pursue research dedicated to improving the life chances for children and young people.
Coram’s Research Impact and Evaluation Team includes 12 researchers and a network of research associates, pro bono analysts and peer researchers. We carry out qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods research with children and young people which often includes their parents/carers and the professionals who support them. This includes a wide range of evaluations from feasibility studies and process evaluations through to large-scale, multi-site experimental and quasi-experimental impact evaluations. We work in-house to support colleagues in the Coram group of children’s charities to evaluate their effectiveness and include the voice of children and young people. We are also commissioned to carry out evaluations for the What Works Centres, the public sector including local authorities, central government, and the NHS, as well as other third sector organisations.
As a team we aspire to be child-centred, rigorous, grounded in experience, embedded in practice, collaborative and impactful. We are dedicated to delivering child-centred research to ensure their voice is at the forefront of our work. We use co-design and participatory research methods to challenge power imbalances within research and work with marginalized groups.
About the role: Coram’s Research Impact & Evaluation Team is seeking a dedicated and hard-working individual with an interest in research and evaluation to join our team to work on a range of quantitative and qualitative projects. You will need to be flexible, pro-active, well-organised and willing to learn. The role also comes with a range of personal and professional benefits including dedicated time for continuous professional development, 25 plus days of annual leave, regular team reflective practice sessions and flexible working arrangements.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to work in applied research and evaluation, and has a passion for designing and delivering high-quality evidence which improves policy and practice for vulnerable children, young people and their families.
To apply for this role, please click on the 'apply now' button below to complete the application.
Closing date: 7th June 2026 @ 23:59pm
Interviews: 15 – 19/06/2026
We will make any reasonable adjustments at the interview stage for applicants invited to interview to support them in their interview. We are committed to the safeguarding of children and where appropriate will require the successful applicant to undertake a check from the Disclosure and Barring Service. Coram is an equal opportunities employer and we are very committed to encouraging candidates from all sections of the community. This includes those from global majority groups, those that identify as LGBQT+, those with disabilities, those with lived experience of care, those with neuro-diversity, and those from other groups who are underrepresented in research roles.
If applicants feel comfortable, we would encourage them to draw on lived experience in their personal statement as part of their application.
Registered Charity No. 312278.
Research Assistant employer: Coram
Coram is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment that prioritises the well-being and professional development of its employees. With a strong commitment to making a positive impact on vulnerable children and young people, the Research Assistant role provides unique opportunities for collaboration with experts in the field, alongside generous benefits such as 25+ days of annual leave and dedicated time for continuous professional development. Join us at our London campus and be part of a team that values child-centred research and inclusivity, ensuring your contributions lead to meaningful change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of research and evaluation, especially those connected to Coram. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching Coram’s projects and values. Familiarise yourself with their approach to child-centred research. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in making a positive impact on vulnerable children and young people.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to research methods and teamwork. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you articulate your experiences clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in the interviewers' minds.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for research and evaluation! In your application, share why you’re excited about making a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people. This will help us understand your motivation and fit for the role.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description. We want to see how your background connects with our mission and the specific responsibilities of the Research Assistant role.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your personal statement, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and focus on communicating your ideas effectively – this reflects your research skills!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it helps us keep track of all applicants efficiently. So hit that 'apply now' button and let’s get started!
How to prepare for a job interview at Coram
✨Know Your Research
Before the interview, dive deep into Coram's mission and recent research projects. Familiarise yourself with their methodologies, especially in qualitative and quantitative research. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your skills align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Passion
Coram is looking for someone who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people. Be prepared to share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to this cause. Authenticity can really set you apart!
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or how they measure the impact of their research. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Learning
Given the nature of the role, emphasise your adaptability and willingness to learn. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in previous roles or projects. This will reassure them that you're ready to thrive in a dynamic environment.
