Research Assistant (Inclusion and Eligibility in Women's Football)

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About the Faculty

The Faculty of Science and Engineering at Manchester Metropolitan University is dedicated to advancing sport science, engineering, computing, and the life sciences through world-class research, education, and partnerships with industry and society. The Faculty provides a vibrant research environment and state-of-the-art facilities, supporting staff and students to deliver impactful research that informs practice, shapes policy, and improves lives. 

About the Department

The Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences is an ambitious and collaborative team, harnessing the power of sport and exercise to make a lasting positive impact on people and communities. We deliver an extensive portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, taught in cutting-edge facilities, and have an outstanding research profile in human performance, health and wellbeing, and applied sport science.

Our staff lead and contribute to internationally recognised research groups and collaborate with elite sports organisations, national governing bodies, and healthcare partners. The Department is home to a thriving research culture, and colleagues are supported to build active research careers through investment in facilities, doctoral supervision opportunities, and interdisciplinary collaboration across the Faculty and the wider University. 

About the Project

This role is funded by an external grant from the UEFA Medical Research Grant Programme (2025/26) to investigate: The Perspective of Recreational, Semi-professional and Professional Female Footballers on the Inclusion and Eligibility of Trans Women Players and Players with DSDs in Football.

The project investigates player perspectives on fairness, safety, and inclusivity across different levels of women's football, as well as cross-national comparisons within Europe. The findings will inform evidence-based recommendations for future eligibility and inclusion policies in women's football.

The Principal Investigator is Dr Georgina Stebbings, supported by a multidisciplinary team across the Department. 

About the Role & Team

We are seeking a Research Assistant to support delivery of this project from November 2025 to June 2026. The role will involve participant recruitment and engagement (including travel to clubs and the national football association), administration of an online survey, and analysis and reporting of results.

Day-to-day, the postholder will liaise with clubs and players, prepare supporting materials (e.g. presentations or videos), and manage data collection and analysis. They will work closely with the Principal Investigator and project team and contribute to the production of reports, publications, and presentations. 

Key Responsibilities

• Recruit participants from across the women's football pyramid and relevant networks.
• Administer and monitor an online survey, ensuring high standards of data management and participant confidentiality.
• Prepare supporting materials to encourage participation and engagement, including presentations and short videos.
• Travel to clubs and associations as required to present the project and build relationships.
• Analyse survey responses and contribute to the preparation of reports, publications, and presentations.
• Conduct literature searches and contribute to research dissemination activities. 

Key Skills & Experiences

• A degree in a relevant subject area (e.g. sport science, sociology, psychology, gender studies, or related).
• Experience of conducting research with human participants, including data collection and analysis.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence to liaise with clubs, players, and stakeholders.
• Sensitivity and awareness of ethical considerations when working with diverse groups.
• Willingness to travel within the UK and work flexibly when required. 

To learn more about role and requirements, please read the Job Description. 

If you would like to join our people and share our ambition, we would love to hear from you!

Application & Assessment Process:

• To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter detailing your suitability, on the application portal.
• For informal enquiries, about this vacancy, please contact Dr Georgina Stebbings on g.stebbings@mmu.ac.uk
• Please be aware that only applications including a cover letter may be considered at shortlisting stage. 
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a panel interview (dates to be confirmed).

Develop your skills, further your knowledge and be part of a team who are transforming lives, every single day!

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from local and international communities, including those from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.

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