About us
Join the Developmental Diversity (DevDiv) lab, a collaboration between the Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology and the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at UCL, the UK’s top-ranked university for research in Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience. We investigate how genetic, neural, cognitive and environmental factors shape social, emotional, and wellbeing outcomes for people with neurodevelopmental conditions. You will join a supportive research environment that works in partnership with individuals, families, clinicians and educators to advance understanding, inform policy and practice, and improve lives.
About the role
You will support the CHEER project (Characterising Humour Enjoyment, Expression and Role in children with and without neurodevelopmental conditions associated with intellectual disabilities), funded by the Baily Thomas Charitable Fund. This novel strengths-based study explores what types of humour are understood, enjoyed and used by children with and without fragile X syndrome or autism, and whether humour can support social engagement. Working with Dr Katherine Ellis, Dr Sarah White, Dr Jo Moss and Prof Sophie Scott, you will contribute to and develop expertise in the design, collection, management, analysis and dissemination of research data from children and their families.
The advert will close on 16/11/2026 at 23:59 GMT, however we may close applications early if we receive a high volume of applications. Early application submission is recommended.
Interview Date(s) are expected to be in the first week of December 2026
A job description and person specification can be accessed at the bottom of this page.
Salary is £39,807 per annum. UCL does not believe that this role is eligible for sponsorship and cannot provide individual immigration advice. Applicants who believe they may be eligible for a visa for this role should visit https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas to check their individual circumstances.
About you
The ideal candidate will hold a master’s in psychology or a related discipline or have equivalent research experience. They will have experience working with children with intellectual disability and their families, collecting research data, and managing research datasets. Candidates should be highly organised, able to work independently and collaboratively, and possess excellent communication skills. A keen interest in developmental psychology, intellectual disability and neurodevelopmental conditions is essential.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
- Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Immigration loan
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On-Site nursery
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong.
We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce.
These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
Athena Swan Status Statement
- Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.
You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/
Research Assistant in London employer: UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON
UCL's Information Services Division (ISD) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration among over 50,000 staff and students. With a commitment to employee growth, ISD provides extensive benefits including 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development in cutting-edge technology areas. Located in the heart of London, UCL promotes a diverse and inclusive culture, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in higher education.
