At a Glance
- Tasks: Run exciting experiments with kids and help shape groundbreaking research in psychology.
- Company: Join the University of Stirling's dynamic Faculty of Arts and Humanities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and a chance to work on innovative projects.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in developmental psychology while collaborating with leading researchers.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's or Master's in Psychology, plus experience with young children and data analysis.
The predicted salary is between 37694 - 37694 £ per year.
Location: Stirling Campus
Contract type: Fixed term until 31st December 2027
Working pattern: Part time (40% FTE)
The Faculty of Arts and Humanities, in cooperation with the Faculty of Natural Sciences is offering a 15-month part-time 40% position as Research Assistant on the multidisciplinary research project entitled ‘Agency, Rationality and Epistemic Defeat’ funded by the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship scheme.
The Research Assistant will work in collaboration with Dr Giacomo Melis (Philosophy, Principal Investigator), Dr Kresimir Durdevic (Psychology, Postdoctoral Research Fellow), Dr Eva Rafetseder (Psychology, Co-Investigator) and Dr Zsófia Virányi (Animal Cognition, Co-Investigator) of the Messerli Research Institute (University of Veterinary medicine, Vienna).
Outline of the Project:
The project is articulated in a broadly philosophical and broadly empirical part, which will progress in parallel and will be driven by the interactive work of the core team. The more philosophical part will develop a theory of rational belief-revision that will apply to the various agents discussed in philosophy and cognitive science, and which will focus on the notion of epistemic defeat. The more empirical part will use such theory to design and run novel comparative cognitive tests on pre-verbal children, pigs, and dogs aimed at assessing whether they may be capable of some form of reflective thinking. The experiments with human infants will be designed and executed in the psychology division of the University of Stirling.
Description of Duties:
- Setting up and running experiments with young children, including corresponding with nurseries and managing testing schedules
- Assisting in supervising student research assistants
- Taking responsibility for participant recruitment including establishing and maintaining good relationships required to facilitate this
- Contribute to quantitative data analysis and management of datasets
- Have regular meetings with the project team to track progress, resolve any practical, technical or analytical issues
- Contribute to manuscript preparation as a co-author
Essential Criteria:
- Bachelors (minimum 2:1) or Masters degree in Psychology or related fields
- Proficient use of Microsoft software (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook) and statistical software (R, SPSS, Jamovi or similar) for the analysis of quantitative data
- Experience of experimental data collection with young children
- Strong organisational, data management, and data analysis skills
For further information, including a full description of duties, essential criteria and details on how to apply, please see Vacancy details | University of Stirling
£31,236 to £37,694 per annum (pro-rata) (Grade 6)
Research Assistant in Developmental Psychology in Stirling employer: University of Stirling
The University of Stirling is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and innovative work environment that fosters academic growth and interdisciplinary research. As a Research Assistant in Developmental Psychology, you will have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge projects while benefiting from a supportive culture that values professional development and work-life balance. Located in the picturesque Stirling Campus, employees enjoy access to beautiful surroundings and a vibrant community, making it an ideal place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Developmental Psychology in Stirling
✨Utilise University Networks
Let’s make the most of those university psych societies! Engage with fellow students and professors, as they often have insider info about part-time roles in the field of psychology. Plus, don’t forget to tap into career fairs – local organisations are always on the lookout for fresh talent!
✨Get Involved in Research Projects
Dive into research opportunities within your department or nearby psychology labs. Not only will this enhance your CV, but it’s also a fantastic way to meet professionals in the field who might know of part-time positions that aren’t advertised widely.
✨Showcase Your Passion Online
Create a public portfolio or a blog that showcases your thoughts on psychological topics. Sharing your insights online, perhaps on platforms like Medium, can help you get noticed by potential employers who are looking for passionate part-time psychologists.
✨Apply Directly on University of Stirling's Website
When you spot part-time roles like the Research Assistant in Developmental Psychology at University of Stirling, make sure you apply directly on their website! This not only shows your interest but can also help you stand out as a proactive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Developmental Psychology in Stirling
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a part-time role in psychology, make sure to showcase any relevant experience you’ve got. This could be placements, volunteer work, or even insightful coursework. Show us how your background has prepared you for this specific position at University of Stirling!
Demonstrate Your Communication Skills:Communication is key in psychology! Use your CV and cover letter to illustrate how you’ve effectively communicated complex ideas or worked with diverse groups. This could be through presentations, group projects, or any mentoring roles you've held—let us see those skills shine!
Tailor Your Personal Statement:In your cover letter, don’t just tell us why you want this role at University of Stirling; dive into your passion for psychology! Mention specific areas of interest or any unique insights you've gained during your studies that relate to what we do. This shows us that you’re not just looking for any part-time job, but that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact.
Keep Your Availability Clear:Since this is a part-time position, it's super important to be transparent about your availability. In your application, include the days and times you're free to work. This helps us understand how well you can fit into our team at University of Stirling—and makes scheduling a breeze!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Stirling
✨Show Off Your Understanding of Psychological Concepts
When chatting with University of Stirling, make sure to highlight your grasp of key psychological theories and frameworks. Be ready to discuss their application in real-world scenarios, perhaps how you've tackled cases during your studies or placements. This is your chance to show them you're not just book-smart but also practical!
✨Be Prepared for Role-Playing or Case Studies
In psychology roles, especially part-time gigs, you might face some role-plays or case study scenarios during the interview. Don't shy away from demonstrating your thought process! Practicing your responses to hypothetical situations can help showcase your analytical skills and empathy, which are crucial in this field.
✨Discuss Your Availability and Flexibility
Since this role is part-time, it’s essential to be upfront about your availability. Highlight any flexibility you have during certain days or hours, as this can be a big plus for University of Stirling. Showing that you're adaptable will signal that you’re keen to fit in with their schedule.
✨Prepare Specific Questions About Their Approach
Demonstrating genuine interest in University of Stirling will set you apart! Come prepared with questions about their therapy methods, client demographics, or team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if their values align with your own – a win-win situation!
