TSS Research Assistant

We are looking to recruit two or more temporary Research Assistants to join the DOORStep research team, which is evaluating the effectiveness and acceptability of free door-to-door transport in increasing attendance at breast screening appointments. This role presents an excellent opportunity for self-motivated researchers to contribute to a vital health initiative funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research. The project, titled "Increasing the uptake of breast screening appointments in Yorkshire," aims to make breast cancer screening more accessible to women by offering transportation to their appointments.

These positions are based in the Hull and East Yorkshire area, where successful applicants will work closely with Dr. Charlotte Kelly (Chief Investigator) to support the delivery of the DOORStep research study. The post holders will be employed by the University of Hull and report directly to Dr. Kelly. Additionally, they will hold an honorary contract with Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, ensuring seamless collaboration between the university and the local healthcare provider.

The working hours for these roles will be flexible and ad-hoc, aligned with the times when women from participating GP practices attend their breast screening appointments. This could involve several consecutive days or weeks at one screening location, followed by a break, over the study period of six to eight months. While most working hours will be during weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., there may be occasional Saturday morning shifts. Flexibility is expected to ensure adequate cover is provided at all screening locations.

Research Assistants will work across various breast screening sites within Hull and East Yorkshire, including hospitals and external screening locations, such as supermarket car parks. Since some locations are outdoors, candidates should be comfortable working in different environments. Due to the geographical nature of the role, we particularly encourage applications from those who live locally or within a practical traveling distance of Hull. Regular travel to the University of Hull will also be required throughout the study for reporting purposes and meetings.

The DOORStep study involves eight GP practices, with one group of participants (the intervention arm) being offered free taxi services to attend their breast screening appointments. In contrast, the control arm will be asked to complete a travel survey. The core responsibility of the Research Assistants will be to facilitate the completion of travel surveys by women attending their screening appointments. These surveys can be completed in multiple formats:

• On paper, to be posted in a collection box at the screening location.
• On paper, to be mailed back in a freepost envelope.
• Electronically, using a website or QR code.
• Electronically, via an iPad provided at the screening site.

Research Assistants will be responsible for distributing the questionnaires and encouraging participants to complete them in their preferred format. They will also offer assistance where needed, ensuring that the data collection process is as smooth and efficient as possible.

For more information about the research, applicants are encouraged to visit the DOORStep study website at DOORstep DOORstep (hull.ac.uk). Interested individuals are also invited to contact Dr.Charlotte Kelly at Charlotte.Kelly@hyms.ac.uk for an informal discussion about the role.

Applicants are required to submit a current CV and covering letter.

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