Research Assistant

Contract Type: Fixed Term (24 months)

Aston University is seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to support the MicroMReg project: Pedestrian-Friendly Urban Spaces through Adaptive Micromobility Regulation.

The project focuses on improving the integration of micromobility within shared urban spaces, with an emphasis on pedestrian experience, safety, and accessibility. It will develop a practical, evidence-based toolbox to support real-world policy and practice.

You will contribute to rigorous literature reviews and the design and delivery of mixed-methods research with human participants (for example field observations and online surveys), including preparation of ethics applications and compliance with governance requirements. You will manage, curate, and analyse qualitative and/or quantitative datasets using appropriate techniques and software, maintaining high standards of reproducibility, data management, and documentation.

You will also support the translation of findings into stakeholder-facing outputs (including policy briefs and practitioner materials), contribute to dissemination and training activities (for example webinars and workshops), and assist with project deliverables, reporting, and research publications. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team and engage with external partners, including city authorities and industry stakeholders in the UK and internationally.

Essential:

• A degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (e.g. Transport, Urban Studies, Geography, Behavioural Science, Data Science)
• Experience conducting research involving human participants, including ethical approval processes
• Ability to analyse qualitative and/or quantitative data
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Familiarity with at least one data analysis tool (e.g. R, Python, or SPSS)
• Understanding of research ethics and data management

Desirable:

• A Master’s degree (or near completion)
• Experience using GIS software (ArcGIS or QGIS)
• Experience of stakeholder engagement
• Interest in sustainable transport, micromobility, or urban mobility

Informal enquiries are welcome: Dr Guilhermina Torrao (g.torrao@aston.ac.uk)

What we offer:

Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre.

• The role is offered as 'dynamic working', which means working both on campus and from home dependent on the activity. Further information on dynamic working can be found here.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• Generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Discounts on a number of activities and retailers
• On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership

Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here

This role is likely to qualify for endorsement under the Endorsed Funder route of the Global Talent visa. This visa is for talented or promising individuals in academia or research in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, or humanities.

See the Home Office guidance: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent&nbsp

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