Research Assistant in Psychology (IHCI Face the Future Project)

Research Assistant in Psychology (IHCI Face the Future Project)

Department: Institute for Health and Care Improvement

Location: York

Contract Duration: 6 months

Closing Date: Sunday 04 October 2026 at midnight

Interview Date: Friday 16 October 2026

Reference: 133-26

Location: York

Fixed term, part time.

Introduction to YSJ university

Situated in the heart of the historic city of York, and with the addition of our London Campus, York St John University has a long and proud tradition as a distinguished higher education provider.

Our success is founded on the quality of academic teaching and research, our thriving campus environments, our professional and pastoral support, and our values of an inclusive, innovative and ambitious community with a strong sense of belonging.

The Project

Face the Future (FtF) will explore the potential of putting young adults face-to-face with their distant future self as a tool to promote positive health behaviours. This new intervention combines digital image manipulation with future self-continuity theory and research. The project’s initial phase comprises an experimental proof-of-concept study and Patient & Public Involvement work with relevant stakeholders (e.g.,health practitioners). Ultimately, FtF aims to produce an accessible digital intervention to support population health and help reduce regional health inequalities.

The Role

FtF requires a 7.4 hours per week, fixed term for 6 months research assistant with degree-level research methods experience and an interest in psychology/applied health research. The successful candidate will carry out in-person data collection, maintaining accurate records; assist with data processing and project administration; and liaise with the project team and stakeholders (participants, health practitioners). Training in specific research procedures will be provided.

The project is funded by the Institute for Health and Care Improvement (IHCI). is led by Dr Helgi Clayton McClure (YSJU), in collaboration with Dr Adam Eggleston (YSJU), Dr Magda Jordão (Leeds Beckett) and Dr Rachael Thorneloe (Sheffield Hallam). Research assistants will work under the supervision of Dr Clayton McClure and attend occasional team meetings.

Required skills and experience

The successful candidate will require undergraduate-level training in quantitative research methods and statistics (evidenced by grades in Level 4/5 modules) as well as maths and English GSCE or equivalent at grade 4/C or above. They should have proficiency in standard IT applications (Outlook, OneDrive, Word, Excel), strong communication skills and a high level of attention to detail. Previous experience as an academic research assistant (paid or voluntary), or in another role involving scheduling and managing appointments, would be an advantage. This post would be well suited to students wishing to further develop their research skills, e.g., for postgraduate study in psychology or health.

The selection process will include a brief interview (you are not required to give a presentation). Further details will be provided if you are shortlisted for interview.

Unfortunately this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship however we welcome your application if you are able to evidence right to work in the UK via an alternative route.

We offer a range of family friendly and inclusive policies and facilities and welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. As part of our commitment to providing an inclusive working environment, consideration is given to all requests for job share or flexible working arrangements.

This vacancy is scheduled to close on the date indicated at the bottom of this advert, but we encourage you to please apply as early as possible as we may consider closing earlier if we receive a high level of applications. If the vacancy is closed earlier, all pending applicants will be notified and provided with 24 hours' notice to submit an application.

Our benefits package

We offer a wide range of employee benefits including -

• - Excellent annual leave entitlement, including five discretionary university closure days over the Christmas period
• - Disability leave (applies to staff who have disclosed a disability and is also available to staff with disabled dependants)
• - Employee Assistance Programme
• - Paid leave for Armed Forces Reservists
• - On-campus courses, one-to-one tutorials, and online resources to help you develop your digital skills and work with new software
• - Relocation expenses package for certain roles
• - Reimbursement of Skilled Worker Visa application fees and Visa loan scheme for additional costs (if applicable to the role)

Further information about life at YSJ

Our attached 'further information' document below provides further information about our culture, achievements and testimonials from our employees.

Closing Date - Sunday 04 October 2026 at midnight

Provisional Interview Date - Friday 16 October 2026