At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a groundbreaking trial on nutrition's impact on youth wellbeing in custody.
- Company: Oxford Brookes University, a modern institution with a rich cultural heritage.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, hybrid working, training opportunities, and discounted sports facilities.
- Other info: Join a vibrant community committed to inclusivity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable research experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for nutrition and research; experience in data collection is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 32080 - 34610 £ per year.
£32,080, rising to £34,610
Full Time, Fixed Term – Researcher
Fixed term role from September 2026 – July 2028 (with possible extension to March 2029). Full time, but part-time would be considered.
Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward‑thinking institution rooted in, and connected to, a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised university focused on providing high‑quality teaching and delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new, and excelling in education and research.”
The role:
Oxford Brookes University and Think Through Nutrition have been awarded £1.8m in funding to deliver the Brain Boost trial: a randomised controlled trial evaluating the effect of nutritional supplementation on wellbeing and violent and aggressive incidents among children and young people in Young Offender Institutions (YOIs). We are recruiting Research Assistants (RAs) to support delivery of a double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trial among young people in custody. RAs will be embedded within two Young Offender Institutions (YOIs) and will play a central role in participant recruitment, informed consent procedures, daily observed administration of food supplements/placebo, adherence monitoring, data collection, safeguarding vigilance, and contribution to the implementation and process evaluation.
The postholder will operate within the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and HMPPS security frameworks and Good Clinical Practice standards, maintaining an equity‑informed, trauma‑aware and culturally responsive approach to engagement. The RA role does not involve custodial authority or disciplinary responsibility. The successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS check and Ministry of Justice and HMPPS vetting and security clearance procedures prior to commencing site‑based work.
As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of a minimum of 25 days holiday, rising with your service, plus 8 bank holidays and additional university concessionary days (normally 5 per year). We encourage and support hybrid working where the role allows and ensure that you have the necessary equipment to allow you to work flexibly.
Benefits:
- Discounted rates for the university sports and gym facilities
- An on‑site nursery (at Headington Campus; waiting lists for some ages).
- Discounted travel options
- Relocation scheme (for moves over 30 miles, subject to terms of the scheme)
- Training and development opportunities
- A connected community – Brookes have a wide variety of staff networks, which instil a sense of community and offer employees a space for support, guidance and friendship, making Brookes a vibrant and inclusive place to work.
Equality, diversity and inclusion:
At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting from the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background. As a Disability Confident Employer we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.
If you are interested in finding out more information about this post, please contact Professor Jonathan Tammam at jtammam@brookes.ac.uk.
Research Assistant (Nutrition) in Oxford employer: Corehr
Oxford Brookes University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a commitment to diversity and a supportive community, staff enjoy generous benefits including a minimum of 25 days holiday, discounted gym access, and opportunities for hybrid working. The university's focus on impactful research and high-quality teaching makes it an inspiring place to contribute to meaningful projects, such as the Brain Boost trial aimed at improving the lives of young people in custody.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant (Nutrition) in Oxford
✨Explore University Career Fairs
University career fairs are gold mines, especially for biology roles. We should hit up these events, connect with potential employers like Corehr, and get the inside scoop on full-time opportunities. Plus, it's a fab way to showcase our passion for the field!
✨Join Biology Communities
Get involved in local biology associations or online forums—these are great for networking and hearing about job openings before they hit the mainstream. Engaging in meaningful discussions can help us stand out and get noticed by hiring managers in the biology sector.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Plan to attend biology-related conferences or workshops. These events are perfect for making connections, learning about the latest research, and even finding out which companies, like Corehr, are expanding and hiring full-time positions. Don't forget to bring your business cards!
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
When you land that interview, be ready to flaunt your research experience and practical skills. Discuss any lab work, projects, or internships that demonstrate your expertise in biology. We want to make sure the interviewers see exactly why we're a great fit for the role at Corehr.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant (Nutrition) in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Lab Skills:In the biology field, it's super important to highlight any relevant lab skills. Make sure to include techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, right in your CV. This helps us see your hands-on experience and how you can contribute at Corehr.
Tailor Your Cover Letter with Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for biology shine through! Share specific examples of projects or research that fuel your passion. It’s the perfect way to convey your motivation and fit for the role of Research Assistant (Nutrition) at Corehr.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any certifications related to biology—like Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or even specific software for data analysis—be sure to mention those. They can really set you apart from other applicants and show us you’re dedicated to your professional development.
Highlight Team Projects and Communication Skills:Biology often involves collaboration, so don’t shy away from mentioning any team projects you've worked on in your CV. Emphasise how you communicated findings or contributed in group settings. This gives us insight into how you’d fit into our team at Corehr.
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Get ready to dive deep into the scientific concepts related to your field! For a biology role, you'll likely face questions about experimental design, data analysis techniques, and possibly even lab protocols. Make sure you're clear on your coursework and any practical experiences you've had.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Hands-on experience can make or break an interview in biology. Be prepared to discuss your previous lab work, including techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy. Bring a portfolio of your lab reports or relevant projects to really impress the hiring team at Corehr.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Biology
As this is a full-time position, employers at Corehr are looking for someone who is not just qualified, but truly enthusiastic about biology. Be ready to share specific moments or projects that ignited your interest in the field. A personal story can really set you apart!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Don’t underestimate the power of behavioural questions! Expect to discuss situations from your studies or internships where you showed teamwork, problem-solving, or conflict resolution. This is your chance to show that you're not only a great biologist but also a great colleague!
