At a Glance
- Tasks: Support impactful research on child online safety and contribute to policy development.
- Company: Join the University of East London’s innovative Child Online Harms Policy Think Tank.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and a chance to work with leading experts.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in child online safety while gaining valuable research experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in mixed-methods research and teamwork skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 39824 - 45281 £ per year.
Salary: £39,824 to £45,281 per annum inclusive of London Weighting
Location: Stratford Campus, University of East London
Post Type: Part Time, Fixed Term
Hours per Week: 21
Contract Length: 12 months
Closing Date: Tuesday 24 February 2026
Interview Date: Wednesday 11 March 2026
Reference: 0345-26-R
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join the Child Online Harms Policy Think Tank, based within the Institute for Connected Communities. The Think Tank is an independent academic initiative dedicated to influencing policy on child online safety, identifying legislative gaps, addressing emerging risks from AI, VR and new technologies, and conducting cutting-edge research. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute and work across timely research projects focusing on online harms, well-being, support research funding development, and engage directly with community, third parties, industry and policymakers.
The post holder will work closely with Professor Julia Davidson OBE, Director of ICC and the Think Tank, alongside a multidisciplinary research team.
Key Responsibilities
- Supporting and undertaking qualitative and quantitative research activities, including ethics applications, data collection and analysis
- Drafting research documentation such as participant information sheets, consent forms, topic guides and recruitment materials
- Preparing literature reviews, briefings, summaries, reports and policy-relevant outputs
- Managing participant data, anonymisation and secure data storage in line with GDPR
- Supporting safeguarding protocols and risk assessments
- Contributing to peer-reviewed publications, reports and policy briefings
- Supporting the wider activities of the Child Online Harms Policy Think Tank
The right candidate will have experience working across various teams and projects, and excellent knowledge of mixed-methods methodologies and common software (Nvivo, STATA/SPSS, Covidence). Due to the sensitive nature of the research, the successful candidate will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Interviews will be held remotely via Microsoft Teams. The role is expected to start as soon as possible following appointment.
At UEL we are committed to working together to build a community which values diversity in both our staff and student populations, is representative and inclusive, enabling all to progress and thrive.
Research Assistant employer: University of East London
The University of East London (UEL) is an exceptional employer that prioritises inclusivity and employee wellbeing, offering a competitive salary alongside a comprehensive benefits package including generous holiday allowances, hybrid working options, and a strong commitment to professional development. Our vibrant work culture fosters creativity and collaboration, allowing you to thrive in a diverse community dedicated to making a positive impact through sport and education. Join us in shaping the future while enjoying unique opportunities for growth in the heart of East London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at University of East London, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like University of East London. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at University of East London. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at University of East London. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of East London
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at University of East London. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at University of East London to drive research projects forward.
