The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.

Overview

The Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research (SCHARR), part of the School of Medicine and Population Health, has a global reputation for world-leading research in public health and systematic reviews. As a Research Assistant (Information Specialist), the successful candidate will work alongside internationally renowned experts to deliver high-quality evidence synthesis projects that have an impact.

This role is ideal for a creative problem-solver with a degree in Librarianship or Information Science, or equivalent professional experience. The successful candidate will lead project work on information retrieval methods, including the responsible use of AI, and provide expert support to multi-disciplinary research teams. The responsibilities of the role will range from designing complex search strategies to delivering Masters-level teaching, and conducting your own methodological research.

We are looking for someone who combines scientific rigour with innovation. You should be an effective communicator, capable of explaining complex information to diverse audiences, including students, clinicians, research funders and commissioners, and members of the general public. Whether working independently or as part of a team, you will play a key role in maintaining our reputation for excellence.

This 12-month, fixed-term position offers hybrid working (candidates must be willing and available to work on campus 60% of their working week), and opportunities for professional development.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Develop and act as a main source of expertise on information retrieval methods including, systematic searching, information management, responsible use of AI, particularly in relation to evidence synthesis and secondary research. Provide advice and support as part of multi-disciplinary research teams in this regard to support informed decision-making. 

• Undertaking short term project management by leading the information aspect of evidence synthesis projects within the Division of Population of Health or as part of larger School, University or external project teams.

• Perform detailed analysis of information relating to search strategies and retrieval during scoping and searching phases of evidence synthesis projects and other information gathering research activities, including presenting results and making recommendations.

• Drawing on experience and expertise to design practical solutions for complex information retrieval issues or problems encountered during large-scale evidence synthesis projects.

• Monitoring and maintaining records related to systematic review activities, including search strategies and reference management, to meet internal and external requirements - e.g. national and international reporting standards.

• Input into the departmental resource planning processes and contributing to business/income development, particularly relating to bids for research grants that require information resources. 

• Contribute to the development and delivery of Masters level teaching, predominantly through lectures and seminars.

• Contribute to the development and delivery of external short courses and training as part of the School’s professional learning programme.

• Develop and undertake a plan of personal methodological research in evidence retrieval and evidence synthesis, displaying a scholarly and independent attitude.

•  Disseminate research findings through reports and publications in peer reviewed journal articles and presenting papers at conferences.

• Prioritise own workload on research, teaching and administrative activities.

•  Plan several months in advance for specific aspects of research projects, e.g. meeting deadlines for project reports, journal publications and preparing papers and presentations for conferences.

• Participate in relevant working groups and committees to contribute to the overall management of the School and to the development of strategy, policy and practice.

• Attending external meetings and liaising with external contacts (e.g., database vendors, other institutions, collaborative groups) to represent and report on work issues or to contribute to collaborative initiatives.

• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification 

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Further Information

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on the 9th June 2026. This will consist of an interview and presentation. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 1st June 2026. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact dph-section-operations@sheffield.ac.uk. 

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

What we offer

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.

• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.

• Generous pension scheme.

• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.

• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).

• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.

• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways.

• A range of generous family-friendly policies

  • paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies

  • access to menopause support in the workplace

  • paid time off and support for fertility treatment

  • and more

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Leader (opens in a new window). If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

Closing Date : 25/05/2026 

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.