Research Associate: Linked Administrative Data Research

A Research Associate is sought to work in the ESRC-funded Administrative Data Research UK - Scottish Centre for Administrative Data Research (SCADR). The postholder will deliver policy-focused research projects using linked administrative datasets. The research will focus on data linkages from education data (pupil census, qualifications, attendance, exclusions) with health, social care, Census and other public sector datasets. The postholder will also be expected to publish in high quality academic journals as well as participate in policy and public engagement activities, training courses, and other events.

The selected candidate will work with Professor Morag Treanor, a co‑director of SCADR and its lead on research into Children’s Lives and Outcomes. This post will be based in the School of Social and conduct statistical analysis using a range of descriptive and advanced modelling techniques, interpret the results, and write up findings in a clear and professional manner. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records documenting the research process (including all research code) and regularly report on progress at research meetings. Be responsible for ensuring that all data are processed and managed in compliance with applicable legislation, codes and policies. Liaise with colleagues in the wider ADR UK networks around related research and possible opportunities for collaboration.

Publication and Dissemination (20% of time)

• Review relevant literature for the research project and use this to take the lead in drafting research articles for publication in high quality international journals.
• Participate in academic seminars and conferences at national and international level and engage with relevant academic research networks within the UK and abroad.
• Provide content on research findings for SCADR publicity materials and the website and participate in social media and press communications.
• Write up research findings/outcomes for publication in leading journals for dissemination as appropriate.
• Document research output including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records and databases, drafting progress reports and papers as appropriate.

KE and Engagement (15% of time)

• Take the lead in organising meetings with, and participating in knowledge exchange and engagement events organised by, research stakeholders including policy makers, practitioners, non-academic analysts and members of the public.
• Translate research findings into non-technical language, respond to requests for information about the research (e.g. give evidence for Parliamentary committees) and prepare research briefing papers and reports for a range of non-academic audiences.

Other Activities (5% of time)

• Contribute to the overall success and future sustainability of the SCADR by developing an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach to working with other research networks in order to exchange research findings, share and develop methodological expertise and explore opportunities for cross-cutting analysis and interdisciplinary publication.
• Identify potential areas for development and opportunities for additional funding and contribute to the preparation of research proposals and grant applications to external funding bodies.
• Participate in research training activities (e.g. SCADR courses on using administrative data) or teaching activities within the School.
• Undertake any other duties of equivalent standing as assigned by the Head of School and/or PI.

To contribute to the enhancement of the University’s international profile in line with the University’s Strategic Plan - Inspiring People – Changing the World.

Knowledge/Qualifications

• Essential

• A1 Normally Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD) plus track record of emerging independence within a research/professional environment, or alternatively possess professional qualifications and experience equivalent to PhD level plus the requisite experience.
• A2 A minimum of five years research experience (this can include time spent on the PhD) using advanced quantitative methods (e.g. longitudinal analysis, multilevel modelling) and willingness to undertake training as required.
• A3 Knowledge of appropriate software packages (especially R, but also Stata, SPPS, SAS or MPlus) and willingness to undertake training as required.

• B1 Knowledge of the Scottish policy context and the National Performance Framework.
• B2 ONS Safe Researcher Accreditation.
• B3 Familiarity with research literature on school attainment/performance and its relationship with home backgrounds, poverty, inequality, neighbourhood/area effects, youth transitions.

Skills

• Essential

• C1 Ability to analyse and organise resources in order to manage time and workload effectively.
• C2 Research creativity and strong cross-discipline collaborative ability as appropriate.
• C3 Demonstrable ability to clearly and effectively interpret, explain, present and communicate the results of quantitative data analysis to different audiences (including academics, policy makers, practitioners and other non-specialists).
• C4 Proven initiative and judgement to resolve problems independently and/or as part of a team.
• C5 Good data management skills, experience of handling and manipulating large or complex datasets.
• C6 Evidenced ability in writing syntax/code for preferred statistical package.

• E1 A track record of presentation and publication of research results in quality journals and/or at conferences appropriate to career stage.
• E2 Experience and interest in communicating (written and oral) research findings to a wide range of stakeholders.
• E3 Experience of managing and analysing large datasets, keeping shared workspaces tidy and appropriately documenting workflow.

• F1 Experience of data analysis of education, census, health or other administrative data.
• F2 Experience of working with linked administrative datasets.
• F3 Experience of working within a secure research environment.

Terms and Conditions

Salary will be Grade 7, £41,064 - £46,049 per annum. This post is full time (35 hours per week), and has funding for up to 30 months from the start date in the first instance. The University of Glasgow has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. If you require a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK, you will be required to meet the eligibility requirements of the visa route to be assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship.

As a valued member of our team, you can expect:

• A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared.
• An excellent employment package with generous terms and conditions including 41 days of leave for full time staff, pension, benefits and discount packages.
• A flexible approach to working.
• A commitment to support your health and wellbeing, including a free 6-month UofG Sport membership for all new staff joining the University.

We believe that we can only reach our full potential through the talents of all. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and in particular people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under‑represented within the University.

We endorse the principles of Athena Swan and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University. We are investing in our organisation, and we will invest in you too.