Job Introduction
An opportunity has arisen for a motivated and enthusiastic Research Assistant to join the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) Medway.
HDRC Medway is a collaboration between Medway Council, the University of Kent and the people of Medway. Its aim is to increase research capacity and capability so evidence can be used to improve the health and wellbeing of Medway’s communities and to reduce health inequalities (see https://www.medway.gov.uk/hdrc for more information).
You will be required to undertake and provide a range of specialist and general administrative duties. This includes supporting with the synthesis and use of existing research evidence, the development of research projects, assisting with qualitative and quantitative research methods and identifying opportunities for research funding.
You will also be required to carry out a range of administrative tasks to support HDRC research activities such as organising and supporting meetings, taking minutes, managing the research team electronic files and verbal and written communications.
You should have experience of using quantitative and/or qualitative research methods and knowledge of undertaking evidence syntheses, rapid reviews and database searches. You should be able to write clearly, concisely and accurately, including about potentially complex issues, and be able to communicate research findings to a variety of audiences. Knowledge of the wider determinants of health is essential along with an understanding of ethical considerations when conducting research. This role requires the ability to build strong relationships and connect effectively with individuals at all levels within and outside of the organisation.
You will have a relevant degree (e.g., Public Health, Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Data Science) or 2 year’s equivalent relevant experience, reflecting good research skills and a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4-9 including English and Maths or equivalent Level 2 qualification.
If you would like to have an informal discussion with the recruiting manager, please e-mail Emma Stait on emma.stait@medway.gov.uk
In return we offer you:
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Generous local government pension scheme package
- Access to wider training and development qualifications
- Flexible working scheme
- Travel plan discounts
- Car Benefit Scheme from Tusker
- Access to CAREFIRST advice & counselling service
- Employee discount scheme for national and local retailers
- The Government has introduced new ways of supporting parents with childcare costs. Further details are available here: - https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/
We're committed to making Medway carbon neutral by 2050. We have developed an action plan to ensure we play our part in addressing the climate emergency. Our declaration fits into our Council Plan priority of making Medway a place to be proud of. The main outcome being a 'clean and green environment'. All Medway Council staff can access an additional day’s paid leave to undertake a volunteering activity which supports climate change.
Our organisation:
Medway is a unitary authority in the South East of England, made up of the towns of Strood, Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham and Rainham and more rural areas, including the Hoo Peninsula.
Situated in Kent in the South-East of England, the area has plenty of green spaces, excellent facilities and easy access to the national motorway and rail networks, facilitating superb transport links to London.
We provide all local Government services for a quarter of a million people, looking after education, environment, social care, housing, planning, business and much more - everything from frontline services such as rubbish collection and events like the Dickens Festival to work that goes on behind the scenes to ensure services in Medway run smoothly and cost effectively.
Working at Medway Council means that you get to be part of this journey working alongside talented professional colleagues to drive forward change to transform the lives of our residents and the communities they live in.
Important Information-
Applicants must be able to demonstrate all essential requirements as listed in the job profile
Equal Opportunities Commitment Statement
Medway Council is committed to creating an inclusive work environment with a diverse workforce. All appropriately qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, disability, marital status, family commitments, sexual orientation, age, HIV status, religious or political beliefs, social class or trade union activity or irrelevant spent conviction.
For further information please refer to the Medway information pack available as a download or to view online.
Please be advised that if you are not contacted within 3 weeks of the advert closing date then you have not been shortlisted. All recruitment correspondence, including interview letters and contracts of employment will usually be sent out via email.
Please visit http://www.mindfulemployer.net/ for information on how Medway Council put good practices in place to ensure employees and job applicants who declare mental health issues receive the right level of support.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy at any time prior to the closing date.
