Researcher in Technical and Vocational Education and Training

Hours: 29.6 hours per week (part-time)

Contract Type: 6 Month Fixed Term Contract

About the University 

We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better.

We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes.

About the College

The College of Arts, Humanities and Education at the University of Derby aims to become a leading institution for education, research, and knowledge sharing in arts, humanities and education. We will strive to provide exceptional teaching and learning experiences for our students, and our research and knowledge exchange programmes will be globally recognised. We are committed to fostering positive change in society by working collaboratively with our partners and communities and inspiring our students and staff to make a meaningful impact. Through the provision of excellent teaching and learning, and world-leading research and knowledge exchange we seek to make a positive contribution to the world through innovation, discovery and creativity about thought and expression and by cultivating intellectual breadth and critical thinking, working ethically, developing a clear identity, being inclusive and embracing difference.

About the Role

The Researcher in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) will contribute to the College’s mission by advancing research in this critical field. The primary purpose of the role is to support and develop international research initiatives, including the preparation of an application for a major European grant. The postholder will take an active role in structuring funding proposals, organizing workshops and conferences, and contributing to the work of the TVET Research Cluster. This is a unique opportunity to manage and lead your own research activities while collaborating on significant team projects. The successful candidate will support undergraduate and postgraduate research, contribute to collaborative and individual funding bids, and work closely with colleagues to foster academic and professional networks. This role will also provide the postholder with the chance to develop expertise in grant applications and project management, with the support of an experienced and dynamic team. 

Please note, this is a part-time position working 29.6 hours per week.

Proposed Interview Date - 4th April 2025

About You

We are seeking a candidate in a relevant discipline or equivalent professional experience. You will have proven experience in supporting research funding applications and a strong familiarity with digital tools and methodologies. Excellent written and oral communication skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders are essential. The ideal candidate will have a track record of engaging in high-quality research, a proactive and team-oriented mindset, and a commitment to professional development. While not essential, experience in publishing research, presenting at conferences, and generating research or knowledge exchange income would be highly advantageous.

Key Contact

For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Johannes Karl Schmees, Associate Professor (Research) in Technical & Vocational Education & Training via j.schmees@derby.ac.uk.

Advert Closes: 27/03/2025

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