At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to research and evaluate innovative crime prevention strategies.
- Company: Be part of a collaborative project between University of Limerick and Queen's University Belfast.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, travel opportunities, and contribute to impactful community projects.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in youth crime prevention while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: Must have a relevant degree or be nearing completion of a PhD in a related field.
- Other info: This is a 12-month fixed-term role with potential for extension based on funding.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 Β£ per year.
We are currently recruiting a Research Fellow to be an active member of the School of Social Sciences Education and Social Work (SSESW) and the Stable Lives Safer Streets Research North/South Research Hub. Funded by the Higher Education Authority of Ireland, SLSS is an ambitious programme of activity. It brings together two academic institutions (University of Limerick and Queen\βs University Belfast) who have a history of policy-relevant research in the area of youth crime and crime prevention, as well as a community partner (Centre for Effective Services) with expertise in implementation. Working across key policy priority areas, SLSS will generate new and cutting-edge evidence around youth crime prevention. It will also embed reliable evidence into policy and practice across the Island of Ireland. Travel will be expected across NI and ROI at regular intervals, with international travel at times. The purpose of this role will be to test and evaluate new and innovative approaches to crime prevention. Under the joint supervision of Dr Colm Walsh (QUB) and Dr Catherine Naughton (UL) the successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to policy relevant and applied research. Key responsibilities include working with communities to understand complexity, collecting and analysing data, and reporting to a range of audiences. About the person: Essential Criteria: An upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field (e.g., criminology, behavioural science, public health) or a Masters degree in a relevant area. Have or be about to obtain a PhD in a relevant subject (within 6 months) Specific experience of engaging with statutory agencies (e.g., police, probation, education) OR communities within a research environment Recent relevant experience of intervention design and development Significant research experience working on a project that relates to youth violence, community violence, conflict and/or paramilitarism and/or CCE Research related to intervention design and/or evaluation Ability to develop high-quality publications record that is REF returnable Experience of communicating research to lay audiences. To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information on our website. This post is available for 12 months or until 31 August 2026, whichever is soonest. Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding. Skills: Research Fellow Social Sciences Education and Social Work
Research Fellow (Community Interventions) employer: IrishJobs
Contact Detail:
IrishJobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow (Community Interventions)
β¨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of social sciences and community interventions. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet researchers and practitioners who are involved in youth crime prevention. This can help you gain insights into the latest trends and possibly lead to recommendations.
β¨Tip Number 2
Engage with community organisations and statutory agencies that focus on youth crime and prevention. Volunteering or collaborating on projects can provide you with practical experience and demonstrate your commitment to the field, making you a more attractive candidate.
β¨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the specific research outputs and methodologies used by the Stable Lives Safer Streets Research Hub. Understanding their approach will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews and show how your skills align with their objectives.
β¨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, especially those related to intervention design and evaluation. Be ready to share specific examples of how your work has contributed to understanding or addressing youth violence, as this will highlight your suitability for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow (Community Interventions)
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and essential criteria. Make sure you understand what the role entails, especially regarding community engagement and research in youth crime prevention.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in criminology, behavioural science, or public health. Emphasise any specific projects related to youth violence or community interventions that align with the job requirements.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that clearly outlines how your background and skills meet the essential criteria. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your ability to engage with communities and statutory agencies.
Evidence Your Experience: In your application, provide clear evidence of your research experience, particularly in intervention design and evaluation. Highlight any publications or presentations that showcase your ability to communicate research effectively to various audiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at IrishJobs
β¨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to youth violence or community interventions. Highlight your specific contributions and the outcomes of these projects to demonstrate your expertise.
β¨Engage with Policy Relevance
Understand the importance of policy-relevant research in this role. Be ready to explain how your work can influence policy and practice, particularly in the context of crime prevention and community engagement.
β¨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since communicating research to lay audiences is crucial, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated your findings to non-specialist audiences in the past.
β¨Prepare for Collaborative Work
This position involves working with various stakeholders, including statutory agencies and community partners. Be ready to discuss your experience in collaborative environments and how you approach building relationships with different groups.