The University of Manchester invites applications from candidates with a BSc or MSc in psychology, social science, epidemiology, public health, or equivalent to investigate the impact of juvenile onset rheumatic diseases on education, vocational readiness, & employment. The post is available from mid April. This is temporary post to cover a period of maternity leave until 1st November 2024. However, depending of future funding the post may be extended.
Research assistant post
We are looking for an enthusiastic BSc or MSc in psychology, social science, epidemiology, public health, or equivalent. The research assistant will work in a research team comprising of a research associate, epidemiologists, (paediatric) rheumatologists and a social psychologist investigating the impact of juvenile onset rheumatic diseases on education, vocational readiness, & employment. This research area has been identified as highly important by those living with juvenile onset rheumatic diseases and their family and carers. The research assistant will be based in Manchester working closely with the research team and other relevant stakeholders including the Advisory Board group and YourRheum.
Background
Juvenile onset rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (jRMDs) such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis, lupus and vasculitis are chronic diseases with onset before the age of 16 years impacting both the adolescents and young adults (AYA) with jRMDs and their families/carers. The disease severity often fluctuates. Both AYA with jRMDs and parents/carers have highlighted education and work and the impact on families as important areas for research. Although disease management has improved in the last decade with more effective drugs and multidisciplinary care, there is some evidence that disease symptoms may influence education and career aspirations. The disruption, and the impact of jRMDs, may further determine future employment prospects. Entering the right career track will likely increase the chance of staying in paid work. This could then positively impact physical and mental wellbeing and limit work related problems such as sick leave. For parents/carers, caring for those with AYA jRMD may result in increased caring responsibilities and more time away from work to care for their children when ill or to attend clinical appointments. The aim of this project is to determine the impact of AYA with jRMDs on education, vocation, employment and parents/carers.
You will have good organisational skills and be able to work both independently and as part of a team. Responsibilities include administrative, secretarial and coordination duties to enable the smooth running of the research developments, including office duties, liaising with sites, data management and any other duties as required by the research associate and/or Prof Suzan Verstappen.
You will be able to demonstrate a flexible approach to work and be able to meet agreed deadlines using initiative and judgement to prioritise competing demands. In addition, to a rolling programme of research, the post will also be key in communicating the research to the wider public. You will have excellent communication skills and experience giving presentations to small and medium size audiences.
The project is funded by the Nuffield Foundation Oliver Bird Fund and Versus Arthritis.
What you will get in return:
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.
Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Suzanne Verstappen
Email: suzanne.verstappen@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
