Graduate Research Assistant

Location: Department of Experimental Psychology, Life and Mind Building

Applications are invited for a Graduate Research Assistant to join the Brain, Speech & Language Research Group led by Professor Kate Watkins within the Department of Experimental Psychology. The post is funded by a European Research Council grant for the STUTTER project, which investigates the neural mechanisms underlying stuttering across the lifespan.

The successful applicant will assist with a randomised controlled trial investigating the effects of non-invasive brain stimulation combined with speech fluency training in adults who stutter. Working closely with the Principal Investigator and postdoctoral researcher, the postholder will contribute to participant recruitment, delivery of experimental procedures, data collection and analysis, and the preparation of publications, reports and conference presentations. Outcomes will be evaluated using speech recordings, MRI and MEG.

The post is full-time and fixed term for 2 years in the first instance, with the possibility of extension subject to funding. Flexible working, including evenings and weekends, may occasionally be required. The role is based in the Life and Mind Building and involves work at the Oxford Centre for Human Brain Activity in Headington, Oxford.

Applicants should hold a good first degree (at least a 2:1) in cognitive neuroscience, psychology, speech and language sciences, or a related discipline. Experience of experimental research methods, behavioural assessment and/or neuroimaging research is essential. Experience of MRI, MEG or non-invasive brain stimulation techniques would be advantageous.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

The University of Oxford is committed to equal opportunity, and to being an inclusive institution where everyone belongs and is supported to succeed. We recognise how the diversity of our community enriches our ability to deliver on our academic mission. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a supporting statement addressing the selection criteria, your CV, and the contact details of two referees as part of your application. For further details please refer to the “How to apply” section of the job description.

The closing date for applications is midday on 13 November 2026 only applications received by this date will be considered.

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