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- Tasks: Join a research team to explore character strengths in neurodivergent children and young people.
- Company: University of Oxford, a world-class centre for excellence in research.
- Benefits: Exciting research environment, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Contribute to groundbreaking research that promotes understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent in a relevant field, with knowledge in neurodiversity.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with strong support for diversity and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Department of Experimental Psychology, Life and Mind Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3EL
The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.
The Department of Psychiatry is based on the Warneford Hospital site in Oxford – a friendly, welcoming place of work with an international reputation for excellence. The Department has a substantial research programme, with major funding from Medical Research Council (MRC), Wellcome Trust and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and provides highly rated medical training in psychiatry. The Head of Department is Professor Belinda Lennox.
The Oxford Centre for Emerging Minds Research is a newly funded research centre that aims to conduct world-class research that contributes to a world where differences between people are understood and accepted, strengths are capitalised on, and mental health difficulties are prevented or addressed early.
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity for a postdoctoral research assistant to join a research led by Dr Jiedi Lei (Principal Investigator) working across two projects:
- Exploring Character Strengths in neurodivergent children and young people (ND CYP)
- The “All About Me” project
Exploring Character Strengths in neurodivergent children and young people (ND CYP) aims to improve understanding of strengths-based approaches for supporting neurodivergent children and young people across settings, while The “All About Me” project works with young people, families, and educators to develop a neurodiversity-affirming toolkit to explore character strengths, abilities, and potential across contexts.
The post is funded for 2 years and is based in the Department of Experimental Psychology, Life and Mind Building in Oxford. You will be responsible for the day-to-day administration of the research project leading on data collection from young people participants using cognitive, behavioural, and clinical measures via lab-based assessments and home or group setting visits, as well as qualitative interviews, and from parents and practitioners using interviews and observations. You will act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on methodologies or procedures. You will promote public involvement with the research project and contribute regularly to the contents of web pages and social media related to the research project and broader group so that they remain informative and up to date.
About You
You will have or be close to the completion of a PhD/DPhil/DClin or other professional doctorate degree, in a relevant subject area. You will possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline of neurodiversity to work within established research programmes. Experience in engaging in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) based research is desirable.
Diversity
Committed to equality and valuing diversity. Our active Psychiatry People and Culture teams and initiatives including our values and behaviours framework, work to make the Department of Psychiatry as supportive, welcoming and inclusive as possible.
Application Process
You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application. Please see the University pages on the application process at https://www.jobs.ox.ac.uk/application-process. The closing date for applications is 24 February 2026.
University of Oxford employer: Institute for Modern
Contact Detail:
Institute for Modern Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land University of Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the University of Oxford. Attend events, join relevant online groups, 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
Show off your personality! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether in person or virtually, let your passion for neurodiversity and research shine through. Be genuine and share your experiences; it helps you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the department and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their work on neurodivergent children and young people. This shows you’re not just interested in any job, but specifically in contributing to their mission at the University of Oxford.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our social media for updates and tips that can help you land that dream role in research.
We think you need these skills to ace University of Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the projects at the University of Oxford. We want to see your passion for neurodiversity and how you can contribute to the team.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. We’re looking for specific examples of your work in research, especially in neurodiversity and HCI.
Showcase Your Research Skills: In your application, be sure to detail your research methodologies and any previous projects you've worked on. We love seeing how you’ve engaged with participants and collected data, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Institute for Modern
✨Know Your Research
Familiarise yourself with the specific projects you'll be involved in, especially those led by Dr Jiedi Lei. Understanding the nuances of neurodiversity and the methodologies used in the research will show your genuine interest and preparedness.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your PhD or relevant experience in detail. Highlight any previous work related to Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and how it can contribute to the projects at the University of Oxford. Specific examples will make your case stronger.
✨Engage with the Team
Since the role involves collaboration, demonstrate your ability to work well in a team. Prepare to discuss how you’ve successfully collaborated in past research settings and how you can contribute to a supportive and inclusive environment.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about data collection methods and qualitative interviews. Brush up on your knowledge of cognitive and behavioural measures, as well as how to engage with participants effectively. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also practical.