At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a research project focused on inclusive careers in engineering through data collection and analysis.
- Company: Heriot-Watt University, committed to equality and diversity in the workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, plus additional closed days, and a competitive salary.
- Other info: Flexible part-time role with opportunities for professional growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by supporting marginalised engineers and contributing to impactful research.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience in qualitative research methods required.
The predicted salary is between 31236 - 36636 € per year.
Role: Research Assistant (Inclusive Careers in Engineering (ICE): Supporting the Career Progression of Marginalised Engineers)
Grade and Salary: Grade 6 - £31,236 - £36,636 (pro rata)
Contract: Part Time (10 hours per week/0.25FTE), Fixed Term for 8 months
Directorate: School of Social Sciences, Edinburgh Business School
Rewards and Benefits: 33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days (pro rata).
Job Purpose: Reporting to the Principal Investigator (PI), the Research Assistant will support the delivery of a qualitative research project. The role involves contributing to data collection, analysis, and dissemination activities, with a focus on understanding participants’ experiences through qualitative methods.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct qualitative data collection, including focus groups
- Support participant recruitment and coordination of research activities
- Conduct qualitative data analysis, including thematic coding using NVivo
- Contribute to interpretation of findings and development of research outputs
- Assist in preparing research reports, academic papers, and dissemination materials
- Support ethical compliance and data management procedures
- Undertake administrative and organisational tasks related to the project
Person Specification:
Essential:
- Postgraduate qualification (completed or in progress) in a relevant discipline, or equivalent research experience
- Experience of qualitative research methods, including data collection (e.g. semi‑structured interviews and/or focus groups)
- Experience of conducting thematic analysis and qualitative coding
- Proficiency in using qualitative data analysis software (NVivo)
- Ability to work effectively as part of a research team
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Excellent written and spoken English communication skills
Desirable:
- Experience of working on externally funded research projects
- Familiarity with research ethics processes in social science research
- Experience of contributing to academic outputs (e.g. reports or publications)
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a research environment
How to Apply: Applications can be submitted until 23:55 on 26 May 2026. Interviews are expected to begin shortly after the closing date. Please submit your CV & covering letter via the Heriot‑Watt online recruitment.
Equal Opportunities: Heriot‑Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all. Heriot‑Watt University values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups.
Research Assistant (Inclusive Careers in Engineering Project) employer: Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
Heriot-Watt University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the career progression of marginalised engineers. With generous benefits such as 33 days of annual leave and a commitment to equality and diversity, employees are encouraged to grow professionally while contributing to meaningful research projects in a vibrant academic environment located in Edinburgh.
Contact Detail:
Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant (Inclusive Careers in Engineering Project)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to qualitative research methods. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your experience with qualitative data collection and analysis. This will give potential employers a clear view of what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant (Inclusive Careers in Engineering Project)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience in qualitative research methods and any specific projects you've worked on that align with the Inclusive Careers in Engineering project.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your skills fit the job description. Be sure to mention your experience with NVivo and thematic analysis, as these are key for the position.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills:Since this role involves working as part of a research team, make sure to include examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past projects. We love seeing candidates who can work well with diverse teams!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It's the easiest way for us to receive your CV and cover letter, and it ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we can't wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
✨Know Your Research Methods
Make sure you brush up on qualitative research methods, especially data collection techniques like semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Be ready to discuss your experience with thematic analysis and NVivo, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
This position requires collaboration, so be prepared to talk about your experiences working in a research team. Highlight any projects where you contributed to group efforts, and demonstrate how you can support others while managing your own tasks.
✨Prepare for Ethical Discussions
Familiarise yourself with research ethics processes, particularly in social science. Be ready to discuss how you ensure ethical compliance in your work, as this will show your understanding of the responsibilities that come with conducting research.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since excellent written and spoken English communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to explain your research findings and methodologies succinctly, as this will help you stand out during the interview.
