The Research Assistant will contribute to the delivery of research within the Horizon Europe Engage2innovate (E2i) project, specifically supporting the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) demonstrator activities within Work Package 4. The University of Salford will undertake elements of the research originally assigned to GMP. The postholder will therefore work closely with University colleagues and GMP partners to support the design, delivery and analysis of applied research activities in real-world policing and community safety contexts. The role will involve supporting human-centred security research and innovation, including engagement with practitioners and stakeholders, data collection and analysis, and contribution to project outputs.
The postholder will be expected to work collaboratively across organisational boundaries, ensuring that research is grounded in operational practice and aligned with the broader objectives of the E2i project. The position forms part of a wider programme of work aimed at strengthening the effectiveness and real-world impact of security research and innovation, recognising that successful outcomes depend on close alignment between research design, operational needs, and implementation contexts. There is an expectation that the successful post holder will work flexibly across locations, including at the University, from home, and, where required, at Greater Manchester Police premises (e.g. GMP Headquarters), to support project delivery.
This is a part time role 0.5FTE and cannot be considered for full time hours. Due to funding deadlines this role will initially be advertised for 1 week but may close early subject to suitable candidates.
Key Responsibilities
- Work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders in Greater Manchester Police and relevant partners to effectively develop the community’s capacity to carry out research;
- To conduct reviews of the literature to support the E2i project, as necessary;
- Design, implement, test and document appropriate research methods associated with the area of research;
- Liaise with other researchers, both internal and external, and collaborate to create project deliverables;
- Develop and maintain skills in relevant research methodologies;
- Carry out high quality scientific research in the specified area;
- Liaise regularly with the principal investigator about project progress and lead on and contribute to academic publications and progress reports as required;
In collaboration with the principal investigator and other E2i researchers disseminate outcomes from the project through internal and external conferences/seminars and academic journal papers at suitable times throughout the project’s progress;
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About the School or About the Department
The School of Arts, Media & Creative Technology (SAMCT) is a community of excellence for socially-engaged research, teaching and practice. The School’s research excellence was demonstrated in the 2021 REF. The School achieved, for one of its returns, the highest Grade Point Average (3.25) for any unit of assessment in the University, with 94% of that unit’s research outputs judged as world-leading or internationally excellent. In addition, two of its units of assessment had 100% of their research impact judged as world-leading or internationally excellent.
The School’s research is structured into centres focussing on industry relevant outcomes: Creative Technology; Recovery, Resilience & Sustainability; Intelligence and Global Security; Art & Design; Practice as Research; and the Design Against Crime Solution Centre. The School offers significant opportunities for its staff and students through its industry engagement, partnerships, consultancy and CPD.
The School’s research excellence is the platform for a breadth of teaching programmes and postgraduate research that feed the Creative and Cultural industries. The School’s graduates are sought after for their application of content and technology in the creative industries and across wider sectors of the economy.
The School is located in flagship buildings at both MediaCity (Salford Quays) and the purpose-built New Adelphi building on the main campus. The New Adelphi Theatre hosts regular public performances.
The School aims to ensure that all staff and postgraduates involved in research and enterprise, regardless of their personal characteristics and background, are able to achieve their best, and that those with protected characteristics have an equal opportunity to succeed in their research studies and professional careers.
What's in it for you?
- Competitive salary - and excellent pension scheme
- An impressive 32 days leave - plus bank holidays, additional time off at Christmas and the opportunity to buy even more!
- Flexible working - we support a culture of flexible and agile working to help you find the right balance
- Professional development - we offer a comprehensive package of training and development opportunities to help you achieve your full potential
- Our community - there's a real sense of belonging here at Salford. We value diversity, in backgrounds and in experiences. Our difference makes us stronger, and together we share a passion for improving students' lives
- The Perks! - MySalford, our online employee portal offers a wide range of lifestyle benefits and discounts
- Wellbeing support - all our people are important to us and we have services and facilities dedicated to your mental and physical health, ranging from an Employee Assistance Programme and counselling, to sports and fitness facilities including discounted gym memberships
- Sustainable Salford - we have a commitment to be Net Zero by 2038 and embed sustainability in all aspects of university life.
- Greater Manchester - live and work in one of the most vibrant regions in the UK, a hot spot of digital innovation, excellent schools and colleges, and with affordable city, suburban and rural living options to suit a wide range of lifestyles
- Our Peel Park campus is unique with lots of green spaces and great transport links including Salford Crescent train station means we're easy to get to
- Team Salford - join us here in Salford and be part of one of the UK's fastest growing universities
- A rewarding career - where everything you do will make a difference. To our students, our local community, and the world around you
