At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in research for enhancing primary religious education and gather data through observations.
- Company: Queen Margaret University, a supportive and inclusive environment in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, flexible working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and gender advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while gaining valuable research experience.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in education and experience in qualitative research.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
The Division of Psychology, Sociology and Education within the School of Arts, Social Sciences and Management at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, is seeking to appoint a Research Assistant in Religious Education to work with Dr Stephen Scholes on the Enhancing Primary Religious Education Pedagogy project (funded by Culham St Gabriel’s). The Enhancing Primary Religious Education Pedagogy project aims to support primary school teachers to confidently deliver and develop learning experiences in Religious Education in Scottish non‑denominational schools via professional learning and collaborative action research.
The postholder will be responsible for conducting literature reviews and gathering empirical data for the project, including on‑site observation of professional practice in Scottish primary schools. The postholder will also contribute to the development of scholarly outputs and other publications related to the project.
Qualifications:
- a postgraduate degree in education or a closely related discipline.
- registration with the General Teaching Council for Scotland, ideally in the primary category.
- experience conducting qualitative research in education, ideally including observations of practice.
The post is part‑time, 7 hours per week (0.2 fte) and fixed‑term for 12 months. The post is anticipated to start on 1 August 2026. The closing date for this position is 23.59 on 28 May 2026.
This role does not meet the minimum requirements set by UKVI to enable sponsorship of migrant workers. Therefore, we cannot progress applications from candidates who require sponsorship to work in the UK.
Queen Margaret University is committed to equality of opportunity for all by providing a supportive, flexible and inclusive working environment, and we welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. Please have a look at our Diversity, Wellbeing and Inclusion Calendar. We are proud to hold an Athena SWAN Bronze Award which recognises the advancement of gender equality at QMU. Find out more about Athena SWAN here. We are a Disability Confident Employer; should you require any specific arrangements during the recruitment process please contact Human Resources on recruitment@qmu.ac.uk.
Research Assistant in Edinburgh employer: Institute for Global Health and Development
Queen Margaret University is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises equality and diversity. As a part-time Research Assistant, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful research while contributing to the advancement of Religious Education pedagogy in Scotland. With a commitment to employee growth and a focus on professional development, QMU fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for those seeking rewarding employment in academia.
Contact Details:
Institute for Global Health and Development Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who might know Dr Stephen Scholes or have insights into the Enhancing Primary Religious Education Pedagogy project. A friendly chat can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for an informal chat! If you get the chance to speak with someone from the university, be ready to discuss your experience in qualitative research and how it relates to the role. Show them you're passionate about enhancing religious education!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of your previous work, especially any literature reviews or observations you've conducted. This will help demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Assistant role. Highlight your postgraduate degree and any relevant experience in qualitative research, especially if it includes observations of practice in education.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about enhancing primary religious education. Share specific examples of your past work or projects that align with the goals of the Enhancing Primary Religious Education Pedagogy project.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your skills in conducting literature reviews and gathering empirical data. We want to see how you can contribute to scholarly outputs and publications related to the project.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Queen Margaret University.
How to prepare for a job interview at Institute for Global Health and Development
✨Know Your Project Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Enhancing Primary Religious Education Pedagogy project. Familiarise yourself with its goals, methodologies, and expected outcomes. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to discuss how your skills can contribute effectively.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in conducting qualitative research, especially in education. Bring examples of past projects where you've conducted literature reviews or observations. Highlighting specific instances will demonstrate your capability and confidence in handling the responsibilities of the role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
During the interview, don’t just answer questions—engage with the interviewers. Ask insightful questions about the project, the team, and the impact of your potential contributions. This shows that you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the role and the organisation.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Queen Margaret University values diversity and inclusion, so be sure to express your commitment to these principles. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that promote equality in education. This will resonate well with their ethos and demonstrate that you align with their values.
