Research Fellow (PQH)

About the job:

This project, led by Queen’s and involving a consortium of the 4 NI HEIs, aims to deliver a research-informed and evidence-based development programme for school leaders that addresses the complex demands of education in Northern Ireland. By integrating research and practice with a leadership education approach, the programme will be designed not only to strengthen individual leadership capacity but also to drive NI school improvement and enhance educational outcomes for all pupils.

Structured across three progressive phases, the programme will deliver a robust leadership programme over 18 months, in keeping with the tender requirements. This will include: phase 1-design and development of the modules (6 months), phase 2 - pilot consultations with key stakeholders (12 months), and phase 3 - full implementation of the provision (18 months). The programme integrates theoretical knowledge with applied practice through a blended model comprising workshops, school-based placements, coaching and mentoring, Self-Directed Learning Sets (SDLS) as future communities of practice, 360-degree feedback and monitoring, and a whole-school leadership and change initiative.

The appointee will have responsibility for undertaking research relevant to the development of the programme and its delivery, supporting ongoing evaluation of programme implementation.

About the person:

The successful candidate must have, and your application should clearly demonstrate that you meet the following essential criteria:

• Hold an upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) or a master's degree in education, social science, modern languages, or another relevant subject.
• Have or be about to obtain a PhD, or equivalent, in education, social science or a cognate discipline (must be obtained within 3 months of commencement of employment).
• Have proven experience with quantitative and qualitative research methods, including surveys, interviews, workshop design, and statistical techniques of data analysis.
• Have experience in planning, organising and managing projects/workshops involving a range of educational stakeholders.
• Have experience in education policy-related research and engagement with policymakers.

To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information document on our website.

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