Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

We are inviting applications for two enthusiastic and organised research assistants to work on the Speech, Hearing and Early Language Learning (SHELL) Study organised by Dr Lizzie Buchanan-Worster and Dr Matt Davis. This study is investigating hearing, speech perception and language skills in 5-6 year old children (~2400 children overall). The research assistant positions will be to support the first year of data collection (around 1000 children) during which we will go into primary school classrooms to administer gamified tests of hearing and speech listening to the whole class. Children will complete these assessment games during engaging science education sessions, using tablets and headphones. We will also measure children's language and reading skills (e.g. their vocabulary knowledge) and other cognitive abilities (e.g. paying attention).

We are looking for someone who is excited about making science enjoyable and accessible to 5-6 year olds, will work well as part of a team of researchers (including placement students) and who shows the attention to detail required for conducting data collection with young children.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 8 months in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check (enhanced with children's barred list), a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check, a health assessment and a security check.

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

The closing date for applications is: 28th May 2026

The interview date for the role is: To be confirmed

Please quote reference SU49652 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Apply online

Key information

Department/location

MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit

Salary

£33,002-£35,608

Reference

SU49652

Category

Research