University of Oxford Opens Applications for Research Assistant Position in Groundbreaking Neurodiversity Project – Apply by 3 July 2026 @Unknown

The University of Oxford has announced a new career opportunity for aspiring researchers with a passion for neurodiversity, child development, and mental health. The prestigious institution is seeking a Research Assistant to join the innovative “All About Me” project at the Oxford Centre for Emerging Minds Research (OCEMR), a newly funded centre dedicated to improving outcomes for children and young people.

The position is based within the Department of Experimental Psychology at Oxford’s Life and Mind Building and offers a two-year fixed-term contract. Applications are open until 3 July 2026, with interviews expected to take place in mid-July.

New Research Centre Focuses on Emerging Minds and Mental Health

The Oxford Centre for Emerging Minds Research was established to conduct world-class research aimed at creating a society where differences among children and young people are better understood and accepted. The centre focuses on identifying strengths, promoting inclusion, and ensuring that mental health challenges are addressed early in life.

By bringing together researchers, educators, families, and young people, the centre seeks to develop innovative approaches that support positive developmental outcomes and improve mental wellbeing.

The Research Assistant role forms part of this broader mission and will contribute directly to a pioneering project exploring strengths-based approaches to neurodiversity.

“All About Me” Project Promotes Neurodiversity-Affirming Approaches

The successful candidate will join the “All About Me” project, led by Dr. Jiedi Lei, Principal Investigator at the Oxford Centre for Emerging Minds Research.

The project is designed to work collaboratively with:

• Children and young people.
• Families and caregivers.
• Educators and schools.
• Community stakeholders.

Its primary objective is to develop a neurodiversity-affirming toolkit that helps identify and explore character strengths, abilities, and individual potential across different environments.

Researchers hope the project will provide a more balanced understanding of neurodiversity by highlighting strengths alongside challenges and supporting more inclusive educational and developmental practices.

Key Responsibilities of the Research Assistant

The appointed Research Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting both the research and operational aspects of the project.

Core responsibilities include:

• Conducting experimental research related to strengths-based approaches in neurodiversity.
• Supporting data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
• Coordinating Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) activities.
• Organising stakeholder meetings and engagement sessions.
• Producing newsletters and communication materials.
• Managing relationships with schools, charities, and partner organisations.
• Supporting participant recruitment and retention efforts.
• Contributing to project administration and planning.
• Assisting with academic publications, reviews, and book chapters.
• Participating in public engagement and knowledge-sharing activities.

The role provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in both academic research and community-focused engagement initiatives.

Hybrid Working Model Offers Flexibility

The University of Oxford has confirmed that the position will operate on a hybrid working basis, offering a balance between office-based and remote work.

Under the arrangement:

• Employees will spend a minimum of two days per week at the Life and Mind Building in Oxford.
• Up to three days per week may be spent working remotely or conducting visits to partner schools and participating organisations.

This flexible structure supports collaboration while allowing researchers to engage directly with communities involved in the project.

Qualifications and Experience Required

The university is seeking candidates with a strong academic background and a genuine interest in neurodiversity and child mental health research.

Essential requirements include:

• An undergraduate degree in Psychology or a related healthcare discipline such as Medicine.
• Specialist knowledge of neurodiversity and related research areas.
• Ability to work effectively within established research programmes.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.
• Experience working with research participants and stakeholders.

Applicants with additional expertise in emerging technologies will have an advantage.

Desirable qualifications include:

• Experience using Artificial Intelligence (AI) or machine learning in research or clinical settings.
• Knowledge of digital learning platforms and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs).
• Experience supporting innovative educational or research technologies.

Attractive Salary and Employee Benefits

The University of Oxford continues to attract top talent through a competitive compensation package and extensive employee benefits.

The successful candidate will receive:

• Annual salary ranging from £35,681 to £37,338.
• Membership in an excellent contributory pension scheme.
• 38 days of annual leave.
• Access to childcare support services.
• Family leave benefits.
• Cycle-to-work loan scheme.
• Discounted public transport and season ticket loans.
• Membership opportunities in social and sports clubs.

These benefits form part of Oxford’s broader commitment to supporting employee wellbeing and professional development.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Oxford has reaffirmed its commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace through its equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives.

The Department of Psychiatry’s People and Culture teams actively work to ensure that all employees feel supported and valued regardless of background, identity, or lived experience.

The university continues to invest in policies and programmes that promote equity, belonging, and professional growth throughout its academic community.

Application Process and Important Dates

Interested candidates must complete an online application and submit the following documents:

• Covering letter or supporting statement.
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Contact details for two referees.

Key application details:

• Position: Research Assistant – All About Me Project
• Institution: University of Oxford
• Department: Experimental Psychology
• Location: Oxford, United Kingdom
• Contract Duration: Two Years
• Salary: £35,681 – £37,338 per annum
• Vacancy ID: 186957
• Application Deadline: 3 July 2026 at 12:00 PM
• Interviews: Expected in Mid-July 2026

The opportunity is expected to attract significant interest from graduates and early-career researchers seeking to contribute to cutting-edge work in neurodiversity, child development, and mental health research at one of the world’s leading universities.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

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