Research Assistant

University of the West of Scotland – School of Education & Social Sciences

Paisley Campus

Part time: 27 days total

Fixed Term: Contract period and work schedule to be agreed with the candidate

An exciting Research Assistant role is available within the School of Education and Social Sciences at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), to join a research project funded by the Hannah Dairy Research Foundation (HDRF).

The post holder will be joining a small team of researchers based at UWS Paisley campus, working in collaboration with the University of Exeter and Teagasc in Ireland. The research project —titled ‘The impact of wearable technology for cows, on farmers work and wellbeing’— investigates the social impact that wearable technology for cows (i.e. biosensor devices that monitor a range of biometrics in cows) has on famers daily work task (i.e. labour processes) and their wellbeing (i.e. job satisfaction).

The project will commence in January 2025 and will last for twelve months. The project aims to speak with 25 dairy farmers the majority of those based in Scotland, with a small number in England and Ireland.

The Research Assistant will be mainly expected to conduct interviews with farmers in Scotland. However, depending on the post holder’s interest and time commitments, there is the possibility to be involved in the design of the research interviews, the data analysis, report writing, and presenting at relevant conferences. Interviews with farmers will take place either in person or online, depending on the farmers’ preferences. The first few interviews will be conducted by the Research Assistant together with the Principal Investigator who is based at UWS. 

Our ideal candidate will be a farmer or a farm worker in Scotland, or a researcher working with the farming community in Scotland. We are also opened to applications from researchers or academics not working in the field of farming. For those with no previous experience of research, an interest in research, the project topic, and a willingness to learn are key.

The Research Assistant will make an important contribution to the understanding of an important topic that has attracted limited research in the past. We expect the research to have a positive impact in the farming community and the industry in general. The Research Assistant will be included in any publication that result from the research. It is likely that the learning and outputs from this research will form the basis for a future larger research proposal.

The successful candidate should have the following:

• Drivers licence to access remote locations which would be inaccessible via public transport, plus frequent travel to farms.
• Capable of working independently, exercising a high degree of initiative and demonstrating a proactive and flexible approach to work.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet agreed milestones.
• Good time-keeping and time-management, with associated effective prioritisation of tasks.
• Ability to contribute ideas and initiate new ways of working.

About us

University of the West of Scotland is one of Scotland’s largest and most dynamic modern universities. Our reach across the country, together with our London campus, means that UWS is a significant force in global knowledge creation, innovation, and a leading provider of undergraduate, postgraduate and research degree education. Our degrees provide students with a transformational experience; equipping them with highly sought-after graduate skills that set them up for global success in world-leading sectors, industries and businesses.

With cutting-edge courses, modern pedagogy and practical knowledge, we enable our students and staff to experience the joy of learning, teaching, research and innovation, and apply their knowledge for the benefit of others.

UWS is officially ranked by Times Higher Education in the top 200 universities worldwide under 50 years old (2023 Young University Rankings).

The School of Education & Social Sciences at UWS combines sector-leading education provision with strong expertise in social science teaching and research in the west of Scotland and beyond. You will join a supportive and committed team, playing a crucial role in the School’s commitment to social justice and making a difference locally, nationally and internationally. Our students benefit from innovative, practice-focused and research-informed courses, and deep-rooted partnerships with leading organisations across the world.

UWS is fully committed to the UK Concordat to support the Career Development of Researchers which sets out clear standards that research staff can expect from the University. It aims to improve the employment and support for research careers in the UK and provides a framework for career development based around the Concordat principles.

We offer our staff a caring and supportive environment, across five campuses, and a competitive benefits package which includes:

• 35 days of annual leave, plus a further 12 days for public/university holidays
• An additional days leave on your birthday
• 23% employer’s pension contribution, including death in service benefits on joining the pension scheme
• A flexible approach to working pattern and work-life balance
• Employee discount scheme across 3,500 retailers
• Fitness facilities across our campuses
• Access to a range of health and wellbeing resources, including occupational health, physiotherapy and access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Professional, career, and research development opportunities.

Interview date: Week commencing 17^th February 2025

The University reserves the right to shorten/extend the closing date of any position where a high/low volume of suitable applications are received. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, an early application would be encouraged.

You can find out more about how the University uses your personal data as part of the recruitment process by looking at the UWS HR Applicant Privacy Notice at www.uws.ac.uk

UWS is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups.

UWS is a “Disability Confident” employer.

University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity, no. SC002520.