Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Innovation, Productivity and Growth

Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward thinking institution rooted in, and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised University focused on providing high-quality teaching, delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new and excelling in education and research.” 

Our people are at the heart of the University - our excellence in teaching, research and knowledge exchange depends on the engagement, capability and wellbeing of our people. We strive to create and encourage an environment where people have the opportunity to develop, progress and thrive. 

Based at our Headington campus and reporting to the Principal Investigator, the Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Innovation, Productivity, and Growth will contribute to our project investigating the relationship between innovation, productivity and growth in manufacturing SMEs. 

This is a part time, 0.5FTE, fixed term post for 6 months. This appointment is expected to start as soon as possible. 

Applicants are required to have valid eligibility to work in the UK due to the project's strict deadline and the duration of the contract.

The PDRA will also work in collaboration with  Oxford Innovation Advice and  The Productivity Institute (TPI). 

What will I be doing?  

• Fieldwork through interviews and focus groups
• Analysis of existing datasets to understand the underlying factors that encourage firms to adopt technology, and how these relate to productivity and growth.
• Work on reports, publications, and applied tools. 

What skills do I need?  

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to liaise effectively with academic, policy and practitioner audiences.
• High-quality report writing and presentation skills.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to undertake some administrative duties.
• Profound understanding of contemporary debates relating to business models, business model innovation, technological innovation, digital platforms, artificial intelligence adoption, and business ecosystems, and knowledge of Professional Services firms. 

Based at our Headington campus, you’ll experience the vibrant campus atmosphere and benefit from our modern office environment. The campus is one mile from the centre of Oxford and is served by regular public transport.  This role will be hybrid, expecting the PDRA to attend events, meetings, and other important occasions on campus. Some travel might be also required to complete the fieldwork.

As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of a minimum of 25 days holiday, rising with your service, plus 8 Bank Holidays and additional University concessionary Days (approx 5 per year).

We have an extremely competitive Local Government pension scheme  with a 19.2% Employer contribution rate, as well as providing all staff with financial education, a comprehensive employee assistance helpline. 

Equality, diversity and inclusion

At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting from the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background.

As a Disability Confident Employer we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.

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