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- Tasks: Join a team to research mental health support for postgraduate students from the Global South.
- Company: UCL and University of Edinburgh are leading this impactful interdisciplinary project.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible remote work, professional development, and opportunities for co-authorship on publications.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in student wellbeing while gaining valuable research experience.
- Qualifications: Ideal for doctoral researchers or early-career scholars with relevant research backgrounds.
- Other info: Application deadline is 3 September 2025; online interviews from 16-18 September.
The predicted salary is between 42500 - 50000 £ per year.
Project Title: You Are Not Alone: Co-creating Preventive Mental Health Support with and for Postgraduate Students from the Global South
Project Duration: September 2025 – July 2026
Institution(s): UCL (in partnership with the University of Edinburgh)
Pay Scale:
Research Assistant (Grade 6, spine point 23): £20.48 per hour (including London Allowance)
Research Associate (Grade 7, spine point 30): £24.17 per hour (including London Allowance)
About the Opportunity
We are recruiting two part-time Research Assistants / Associates (RAs) to join an interdisciplinary research project funded by UCL’s Grand Challenges. The project is co-led by Mr Enze Guo (UCL) and Dr Peng Zhang (University of Edinburgh) and investigates the mental health experiences of postgraduate students from the Global South in UK higher education. Combining qualitative, quantitative, and participatory methods, the project seeks to generate both academic insights and meaningful institutional change.
About the Project
This project investigates the unique mental health challenges experienced by Global South postgraduate students in the UK, with a particular focus on how and why they may feel excluded from existing support systems. It seeks to co-create culturally responsive and preventive wellbeing strategies in partnership with these students. Grounded in decolonial and intersectional frameworks, the project places student voice, agency, and cultural knowledge at the heart of its approach.
Role Description
We are seeking two RAs with complementary research backgrounds:
(1) RA 1 (Qualitative): experience in qualitative interviews, participatory methods, and/or narrative analysis
(2) RA 2 (Quantitative): experience in survey design, statistical analysis, and data visualisation
Key responsibilities include:
(1) Assisting with participant recruitment and engagement
(2) Supporting the design and implementation of surveys and interviews
(3) Analysing qualitative and/or quantitative data
(4) Contributing to project outputs, including co-authored publications and workshop facilitation
(5) Participating in monthly online team meetings
What We Offer
(1) A chance to contribute to a timely and socially impactful project
(2) Opportunities for co-authorship on the final report, papers and policy briefs
(3) Professional development through collaborative, interdisciplinary work
(4) A flexible, supportive, and remote-friendly working arrangement
Applicant Requirements
(1) Have the right to work in the UK
(2) Doctoral researchers who have successfully passed their upgrade (applying as Research Assistants), or Early-career scholars who have already completed their PhD (applying as Research Associates)
(3) Have a track record of qualitative and/or quantitative research, demonstrated through their thesis, peer-reviewed publications, and/or reports
(4) Possess academic knowledge in the social sciences, particularly education, sociology, and/or psychology
(5) Have a demonstrated commitment to, or prior experience of, working with Global South communities.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining our team, please email your CV and a one-page cover letter to Dr Peng Zhang at . In your cover letter, briefly outline your motivation for applying and how your experience aligns with the requirements listed above.
Deadline: 23:59 (BST), 3 September 2025
Shortlisting Notification: All applicants will be informed of the outcome by 8 September.
Online interviews will be held between 16–18 September.
The successful candidate will be notified by 19 September.
If you have any questions about the role or application process, please contact Dr Peng Zhang at .
Research Assistant / Associate employer: UCL Grand Challenges
Contact Detail:
UCL Grand Challenges Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant / Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific mental health challenges faced by postgraduate students from the Global South. This will not only help you understand the project's context but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals and academics who have experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods. Attend relevant workshops or webinars to enhance your skills and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, especially any work related to mental health or Global South communities. Highlight how your background aligns with the project's goals during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams. Be ready to provide examples of past projects where you successfully contributed to team efforts, as this role involves working closely with others.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant / Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Familiarise yourself with the project's aims and objectives. Highlight your understanding of the mental health challenges faced by postgraduate students from the Global South in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV reflects relevant experience, particularly in qualitative or quantitative research methods. Include any specific projects or publications that demonstrate your expertise in social sciences.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly express your motivation for applying and how your background aligns with the role's requirements. Be specific about your experience with Global South communities and any relevant research methodologies.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. A polished application demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail, which are crucial for research roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL Grand Challenges
✨Understand the Project's Focus
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the project's aim to investigate mental health experiences of postgraduate students from the Global South. Familiarise yourself with the key themes, such as cultural responsiveness and intersectionality, as this will help you demonstrate your alignment with the project's goals during the interview.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous research experience, particularly in qualitative or quantitative methods, depending on the role you're applying for. Highlight specific projects or publications that showcase your skills and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Inclusivity
Since the project focuses on Global South communities, be ready to share any relevant experiences or insights you have regarding working with diverse populations. This could include previous research, community engagement, or personal experiences that reflect your understanding of inclusivity and cultural sensitivity.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the opportunity to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful inquiries about the project's methodology, team dynamics, or future directions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.