At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead outreach and recruitment initiatives to boost university applications from underrepresented groups.
- Company: Join the University of Reading, a diverse and inclusive institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel across the South Coast and excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and promote higher education access.
- Qualifications: Degree holder with experience in student recruitment or outreach roles.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Fixed Term: mid June 2026 - end August 2027, Full time.
You will be responsible for delivery and further development of a strategic programme of outreach, recruitment and conversion activity designed to respond to the specific context of HE progression in the region. In doing so, your activities will directly increase applications and acceptances to the University of Reading from this area, particularly from groups that are under represented at the university.
This role will require frequent travel across the South Coast (Hampshire, Sussex, Dorset) with target schools stretching from Weymouth to Bexhill. You will be part of the UK Student Recruitment and Outreach team and will need to maintain regular contact with colleagues based full time in Reading. You will also occasionally work from our Reading campuses as required, for example for team planning days, on campus visits and Open Days.
Qualifications- A first degree or equivalent.
- Experience of working within a student recruitment or outreach role, or similar.
- Evidence of working with a wide range of people.
- In depth knowledge of the UK higher education sector and the student recruitment cycle, including post application timelines.
- Ability to work independently and work to objectives with minimal supervision.
- Demonstrable understanding and knowledge of UK secondary and tertiary education sector.
- Experience working with external stakeholders and developing relationships.
- To undertake safeguarding training and follow the University's Safeguarding Children & Adults at Risk Policy at all times.
- To consider safeguarding in risk assessment processes for events and activities you deliver.
- To report any disclosures or concerns using the Safeguarding Incident Form and submit this to the UK Student Recruitment and Outreach team Designated Safeguarding Officer.
- An enhanced DBS with a child barred list check is required for this position. This role is a regulated activity.
- This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job share, part time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Postdoctoral Research Assistant employer: Job Search Place Limited
The University of Reading is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters professional growth and inclusivity. With a strong commitment to diversity and a supportive culture, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements and opportunities to engage in meaningful outreach initiatives across the South Coast. Join us to make a tangible impact on higher education access while collaborating with a dedicated team focused on student recruitment and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in similar roles, especially those at the University of Reading. They can give you insider tips on what the hiring team is really looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the university's outreach programmes. Show us that you understand their mission and how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your answers to reflect this!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently when it’s your turn to shine in front of the panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows us that you’re genuinely interested in the role and appreciate the opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the role. Highlight your experience in student recruitment or outreach, and show how it aligns with our mission at StudySmarter. We want to see how you can contribute to increasing applications from underrepresented groups!
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your understanding of the UK higher education sector and the student recruitment cycle. We love candidates who can articulate their insights and experiences, so don’t hold back on sharing relevant examples that showcase your expertise!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the UK higher education sector and the student recruitment cycle. Brush up on recent trends and challenges in HE progression, especially in the South Coast region. This will show your interviewers that you're not just interested in the role but also informed about the context in which you'll be working.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your experience in student recruitment or outreach. Highlight any successful projects you've led or contributed to, especially those involving underrepresented groups. This will help illustrate your ability to meet the objectives of the role.
✨Build Rapport
Since this role involves working with a wide range of people, practice building rapport during your interview. Be friendly, approachable, and ready to discuss how you’ve successfully developed relationships with external stakeholders in the past. This will show that you can connect with schools and communities effectively.
✨Be Ready for Travel Talk
Given the travel requirements of the job, be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to travel across the South Coast. Share any relevant experiences where you've managed travel for work, and how you balanced it with your responsibilities. This will reassure them that you’re ready for the demands of the role.
