Research Assistant

Aston University - School of Psychology

Location:Aston University Main Campus

Contract Type:Fixed Term (18 months)

We are looking for a research assistant to work on a study to develop and test an online psychological intervention to support food allergy management. FACETS (Food Allergy Coping Empowerment Tools and Support) has been developed for caregivers of children with food allergy and adults with food allergy. We are now looking to develop FACETS for adolescents. This work is part of the wider GAPS Project (Global Access to Psychological Services for Food Allergy). The GAPS project aims to improve food allergy patient outcomes by ensuring that patients’ psychosocial needs are met. The project is run by a multinational group of experts in food allergy, led by Prof Rebecca Knibb at Aston University. Further information about GAPS can be found here.

We are looking for a research assistant to work collaboratively with the GAPS team. Main duties will involve study set-up, running of interviews and focus groups with adolescents, developing online surveys and running a randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of FACETS. We are looking for someone with a psychology degree and a post-graduate qualification in health psychology or similar. You will need to have experience of initiating and conducting research, undertaking qualitative and quantitative data analysis and interpreting results, writing reports and delivering presentations. You will need to be able to work effectively in a team and have excellent verbal and written communication skills, organisational, time-keeping and report writing skills. The post-holder will work under the direct supervision of Professor Rebecca Knibb.

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Rebecca Knibb at r.knibb@aston.ac.uk

What we offer:

• Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days of bank holiday and University closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family-friendly policies.
• On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

This role does not meet the eligibility criteria for new applicants to the Skilled Worker visa route.

See here for information about Skilled Worker eligibility criteria:https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Closing Date:23.59 hours GMT on Monday 16 February 2026

Interview Date:Wednesday 04 March 2026