Research Assistant

Role overview

This position is aimed at an early-career researcher who wants to take on an initial challenge in behavioural science within a major research-intensive university. The University of Leeds is among the world’s top 80 universities and brings together a large international community, with more than 39,000 students from 170 countries and over 9,000 staff representing 100 nationalities. Founded in 1904, the university is known for strong academic standards, excellent teaching, and research with worldwide impact.

Research focus

The role supports behavioural science research within Professor Samuel Smith’s programme, which examines behaviours linked to cancer prevention and management. This includes work on weight management, physical activity, medicine adherence, and participation in screening.

Core duties

The successful candidate will help deliver the NIHR-funded ROSETA behavioural clinical trial. The work includes coordinating research tasks, carrying out interviews, and gathering as well as analysing data according to established protocols. The postholder will also help prepare reports, literature reviews, academic papers, and funding proposals, working both on their own and as part of a wider team.

The job calls for strong organisation and the ability to prioritise a busy and varied workload. Multiple deadlines will need to be managed with a good level of independence, while knowing when to ask for guidance. The role also involves working with a range of stakeholders, contributing to research group meetings and presentations, and helping the team develop by bringing forward ideas and keeping knowledge current in the field.

There may also be opportunities to help shape new research proposals and, where appropriate, develop personal research and funding interests that align with the goals of the research group.

Reward and benefits

In return, the university offers 26 days of annual leave plus around 16 bank holidays or closure days, including Christmas, bringing the total to 42 days per year. Additional benefits include pension options with life assurance, discounted membership at The Edge campus gym with facilities such as a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls, access to professional development and self-study courses, on-site childcare, shopping discounts, and travel schemes.

Visa and eligibility notes

Because of Home Office salary rules, this role may only suit first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants if they qualify for salary concessions. Research and academic appointments may also be considered under the Global Talent visa route.

Contact information

For questions about the role or to learn more, please contact Samuel Smith, Professor of Behavioural Oncology, at [email protected].