Research Assistant

Location: Oxford – Department of Social Policy and Intervention

About the role

The Department of Social Policy and Intervention is seeking a part-time Research Assistant to join our team by developing and maintaining the Supporting Early Minds Research Network. The Network is dedicated to supporting the development of children under 5 and their families by increasing research capacity across England. This is part of a wider project called Mental Health in Development (MHID), Oxford Health NIHR BRC. MHID aims to deliver targeted, effective and accessible mental health interventions to meet the needs of diverse children and young people (aged 0-18 years). They are doing this through a range of projects which are developing infrastructure, research capacity and collaborations across institutions and sectors.

The networks aims to support practitioners to:

• Keep up to date with the latest in 0-5 practice, research and evidence through webinars, podcasts, resources and papers
• Learn about how to become research ready
• Build relationships with researchers and early years settings to get involved in research and co-develop new research projects.

The postholder will help to promote and increase research project sign-ups through the established website processes, develop/deliver more webinars and podcasts and update and manage the website including developing three example case studies.

About you

You will hold a first degree in a relevant discipline and be actively working towards a doctorate. You will bring experience in updating and maintaining websites, as well as developing and delivering webinars and/or podcasts. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, along with experience liaising with researchers in local authorities and providing them with informed guidance.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent organisational skills, experience in project planning, and a proven capacity to take ownership of day‑to‑day project delivery. You will be able to work independently using your own initiative, while also contributing effectively as part of a collaborative team. Previous experience working within a research team and contributing to research publications would be an advantage.

The Department is committed to fostering an environment of equality, diversity and inclusion. The hours may be worked flexibly to complement caring responsibilities.

You will be based in Oxford as your normal place of work however there is opportunity for remote working.

The Department of Social Policy and Intervention holds a Bronze Athena Swan Award which demonstrates our commitment towards advancement of gender equality in higher education and research institutions: equal opportunities, representation and success for all.

How to apply

As part of your application you will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement, along with the name and contact details of two referees. The supporting statement should explain how you meet each of the essential selection criteria for the post using clear examples. This may include experience and skills gained in employment, education or during career breaks (such as time out for dependents). Please DO NOT attach any other documents to your application as these will not be considered.

Further information, including how to apply, is available via the 'Apply' button above. Any further enquires may be directed to hrteam@spi.ox.ac.uk.

Only online applications received by 12.00 noon on 15 June 2026 will be considered.

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