Research Trainee

Role Description

• Are you interested in contributing to a project that aims to enhance inclusivity for refugees in higher education?
• Do you have ideas or experiences on how UK higher education can facilitate refugees’ integration into society and strengthen their economic contributions?
• Would you like to help highlight the value refugees bring to society after graduation, and how their contributions can be maximised in the workforce and beyond?

The University of York is launching a research project examining how refugees navigate higher education, the barriers they face, and the impact of policies on their academic and career outcomes. The study will also assess teaching, employability, and career support. This role offers the opportunity to gain hands-on research experience, develop transferable skills, and make a meaningful contribution to improving the experiences of this group of students.

Department

The University of York has always been committed to inclusive education, exploring how different minority groups can benefit from higher education, and takes pride in being recognised as a University of Sanctuary. While the project supervisor is based in the School for Business and Society, this project will be conducted at the University of York level rather than being limited to participants from the School alone. This approach ensures that the research goals are fully achieved and that the findings can benefit the entire university community, rather than being confined to a single department or school.

Role

We are seeking two Research Trainees to join the project team on a part-time basis for a 10 month period from 1 December 2025 to 30 September 2026. Research Trainees will be involved in literature analysis, organising and running interviews and questionnaires, data transcription and analysis, and managing communications with the project supervisor, participants, and other stakeholders. 

Hours

246 hours in total to be worked during the contract (approximately 6 hours per week although this may vary dependent on the requirements of the research)

Skills, Experience & Qualifications needed

• The role requires a completed undergraduate degree with a dissertation or equivalent research project, alongside strong practical skills in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including survey design, interviews, data transcription, and analysis. 

• Proficiency with research tools such as NVivo, SPSS, STATA, SAS, or Qualtrics is essential, as are excellent written and oral communication skills

• The ability to work independently and in teams, and strong organisational skills to meet deadlines. 

• Candidates should demonstrate enthusiasm for the subject, a collaborative attitude, and commitment to personal development. 

• Desirable qualifications include a Master’s or PhD, relevant research expertise, and experience working with refugees. (Current PhD students must obtain approval from their School and supervisor before applying)

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Dr. Malek El Diri (malek.eldiri@york.ac.uk)

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork