Postdoctoral Research Assistant

Location Department of Social Policy and Intervention, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2ER

About the role 

The Department of Social Policy and Intervention is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join an exciting 18-month National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)-funded mixed-methods study exploring how developmental trauma in infants entering care is recognised, assessed, and addressed across health and social care services in England.

The study combines stakeholder co-design, a national survey of health and social care professionals, six local authority case studies, qualitative interviews and focus groups, integration of quantitative and qualitative findings, and stakeholder workshops to develop evidence-informed recommendations for policy and practice.

Working closely with the Principal Investigator and wider research team, you will make a substantial contribution to all stages of the research. You will also provide guidance and support to junior members of the research group, including research assistants, master's students, and project volunteers. 

About you 

You will hold, or be nearing completion of, a PhD/DPhil in social policy, social work, psychology, public health, health services research, or a closely related discipline. You will have strong expertise in mixed-methods research and evaluation, together with the ability to work independently within an established research programme. You will be experienced in planning and managing research activities, coordinating multiple workstreams, and delivering high-quality research outputs to agreed timelines.

You will have experience of contributing to publications/presentations and will be able to contribute ideas for new research projects and research income generation. You will have experience of liaising with researchers in local authorities and providing guidance, as well as project planning/managing project activities and excellent organisational skills. With excellent communication skills, you are able to write for publication, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings. 

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 some 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. 

Only online applications received by 12.00 noon on 1 October 2026 will be considered. Interviews will be held on 22 October 2026.

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