Fixed term role from September 2026 – July 2028 (with possible extension to March 2029). Full Time, but part time would be considered.
Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward thinking institution rooted in, and connected to, a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised university focused on providing high-quality teaching and delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new, and excelling in education and research.”
The role
Oxford Brookes University and Think Through Nutrition have been awarded £1.8m in funding to deliver the Brain Boost trial: a randomised controlled trial evaluating the effect of nutritional supplementation on wellbeing and violent and aggressive incidents among children and young people in Young Offender Institutions (YOIs).
We are recruiting Research Assistants (RAs) to support delivery of a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial among young people in custody. RAs will be embedded within two Young Offender Institutions (YOIs) and will play a central role in participant recruitment, informed consent procedures, daily observed administration of food supplements/placebo, adherence monitoring, data collection, safeguarding vigilance, and contribution to the implementation and process evaluation.
The postholder will operate within the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and HMPPS security frameworks and Good Clinical Practice standards, maintaining an equity-informed, trauma-aware and culturally responsive approach to engagement. The RA role does not involve custodial authority or disciplinary responsibility.
The successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS check and Ministry of Justice and HMPPS vetting and security clearance procedures prior to commencing site-based work.
Benefits
As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of a minimum of 25 days holiday, rising with your service, plus 8 bank holidays and additional university concessionary days (normally 5 per year).
We encourage and support hybrid working where the role allows and ensure that you have the necessary equipment to allow you to work flexibly.
We have an extremely competitive Teachers Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions, as well as providing all staff with access to an occupational health service, financial education, and a comprehensive employee assistance helpline.
We prioritise the wellbeing of our employees - physically, mentally and financially - and we provide a diverse and comprehensive benefits package to support our team.
In addition, all employees have access to:
- Discounted rates for the university sports and gym facilities
- An on-site nursery (at Headington Campus; waiting lists for some ages).
- Discounted travel options
- TOTUM card discount scheme
- Relocation scheme (for moves over 30 miles, subject to terms of the scheme)
- Training and development opportunities
- A connected community - Brookes have a wide variety of staff networks, which instil a sense of community and offer employees a space for support, guidance and friendship, making Brookes a vibrant and inclusive place to work.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting from the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background.
As a Disability Confident Employer we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.
If you are interested in finding out more information about this post, please contact Professor Jonathan Tammam
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