Research Assistant (Nutrition)

Fixed term role from September 2026 – July 2028 (with possible extension to March 2029). Full Time, but part time would be considered.

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 and 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.”

The role

Oxford Brookes University and Think Through Nutrition have been awarded £1.8m in funding to deliver the Brain Boost trial: a randomised controlled trial evaluating the effect of nutritional supplementation on wellbeing and violent and aggressive incidents among children and young people in Young Offender Institutions (YOIs).

We are recruiting Research Assistants (RAs) to support delivery of a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial among young people in custody. RAs will be embedded within two Young Offender Institutions (YOIs) and will play a central role in participant recruitment, informed consent procedures, daily observed administration of food supplements/placebo, adherence monitoring, data collection, safeguarding vigilance, and contribution to the implementation and process evaluation.

The postholder will operate within the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and HMPPS security frameworks and Good Clinical Practice standards, maintaining an equity-informed, trauma-aware and culturally responsive approach to engagement. The RA role does not involve custodial authority or disciplinary responsibility.

The successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS check and Ministry of Justice and HMPPS vetting and security clearance procedures prior to commencing site-based work.

If you are interested in finding out more information about this post, please contact Professor Jonathan Tammam jtammam@brookes.ac.uk

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