Research Assistant – Student Development Post

August 26, 2025

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join the ‘Situating International and Global Mathematics’ (SIGMA) project. This is a student development role exclusively available to matriculated postgraduate research students at the University of Edinburgh.

The successful candidate will assist with research and administrative tasks, including:

Analysing archival documents, databases, and published sources

Supporting the planning and delivery of project events (e.g. workshops)

Contributing to academic outputs and digital/public engagement resources

This role offers hands-on experience in collaborative academic research with the flexibility to support your development alongside your PhD studies.

Eligibility

This role is open only to current postgraduate research students (PhD or equivalent) enrolled at the University of Edinburgh. You must remain enrolled throughout the contract duration (or until 31 December 2027, whichever is sooner).

Key Responsibilities

Conduct archival and data-driven research related to the SIGMA project

Assist in the coordination and administration of project events

Contribute to the drafting and editing of research outputs and online content

Communicate progress and raise any challenges proactively with the Principal Investigator

Maintain accurate records of work hours and tasks completed

Person Specification

Essential:

Undergraduate degree in a relevant field and current postgraduate research experience

Registered as a postgraduate research student at the University of Edinburgh

Demonstrated experience in archival or document-based research

Interest in 20th-century global or international scientific institutions

Strong organisational and time-management skills

Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

Additional Information

Salary: £18.96 – £21.87 per hour (based on experience), plus 18.1% holiday pay

Right to Work: You must already have the right to work in the UK. Sponsorship is not available for this role

Application Requirements:

CV

Cover Letter outlining your suitability based on the person specification

Why Join Us

Contribute to a globally relevant academic project

Develop valuable research and administrative skills

Flexible hybrid working arrangements

Become part of a dynamic and supportive research environment

Access to generous staff benefits, including pension scheme, holidays, and staff discounts

Staff Benefits Overview

Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

The University of Edinburgh is an inclusive and diverse community. We are a Silver Athena SWAN institution, a member of the Race Equality Charter, and a Stonewall Diversity Champion, actively supporting gender, racial, and LGBTQ+ equality.