Research Assistant (Fixed Term) Full-time

Research Assistant

The University of Cambridge is one of the world's leading academic institutions, renowned for its excellence in education, research, and innovation. For nearly 800 years, we've been at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries, shaping global knowledge across diverse fields. We boast 31 Colleges, over 150 faculties and departments, and a thriving ecosystem of museums, libraries, and research centres.

At Cambridge, our mission is to contribute to society through world-class education, learning, and research. With a deep respect for tradition and a bold vision for the future, we continue to shape the world through knowledge, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

We are now looking for a Research Assistant to join us on a full-time basis for a six-month fixed-term contract to cover a period of maternity leave.

The Benefits

• Salary of £31,236 – £35,608 per annum
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Generous maternity, adoption and shared parental leave entitlement and other family-friendly schemes (e.g. workplace nurseries)
• An auto-enrolment pension scheme, with a generous employer contribution
• University Staff Counselling Service
• Travel benefits and retail discounts at over 2,000 local and national stores
• Schemes to support relocation
• Development opportunities

The Role

As a Research Assistant you will contribute to the delivery of research activities across projects concerned with early intervention, caregiving relationships, and children's development and wellbeing.

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr Nicole Creasey as part of the Play in Early Life team, alongside Professor Christine O'Farrelly and Professor Paul Ramchandani, contributing to a portfolio of ongoing and developing research studies.

You will work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. With opportunities for intellectual input, skill development, and engagement with a dynamic and impactful research environment.

Additionally, you will:

• Support the delivery of research projects
• Engage with diverse stakeholders, including families, local authorities, and third sector organisations
• Contribute to data collection and analysis (quantitative and/or qualitative)
• Assist with dissemination activities, including reports and publications
• Support project development and related research activities as required

About You

To be considered as a Research Assistant you will need:

A background in a relevant field (e.g. education, psychology, child development, or a related discipline) and experience in applied research. A 2.1 degree (BA/BSc or equivalent) is required or a Master's degree is desirable.

In addition, candidates should demonstrate:

• Experience of conducting research in applied or community-based settings
• Strong organisational and project management skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience with mixed methods research (desirable but not essential)
• Ability to work effectively with a range of stakeholders, including practitioners, families, and academic colleagues

Other organisations may call this role Research Officer, Research Analyst, Research and Data Analyst, Research and Insight Officer, Research Co-ordinator, Research Fellow, Research Support Officer, or Research Project Assistant.

Key information

Department/location: Faculty of Education

Salary: £33,002-£35,608

Reference: JR49601

Category: Research

Date published: 1 May 2026

Closing date: 17 May 2026