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

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Research Associate with expertise in qualitative methodologies to join our dynamic research team. The successful candidate will contribute to a cutting-edge project focused on understanding how coaching can support individuals who have experienced workplace sexual harassment, led by Dr. Sarah Brooks, at the University of Sheffield (Principal Investigator) and Dr. Valentina Canessa-Pollard, at the University of Chichester (Co-Investigator). The role will involve working as part of a research team of four and closely alongside another RA based in Chichester.

If you have experience of interviewing individuals to explore sensitive topics, enjoy participant recruitment campaigns, are interested in the ethical dilemmas facing coaches and want to be part of an exciting research project, we’d love to hear from you.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with the other Research Associates (RA), Principal Investigator (PI), and Co-Investigator (Co-I)

• Design and drive a recruitment campaign to encourage potential participants to sign up

• Manage all aspects of survey design, distribution, and data collection

• Monitor survey response rates and follow up with participants as needed

• Liaise with participants to organise interviews 

• Design and conduct online qualitative semi-structured interviews 

• Transcribe interviews

• Qualitative data analysis of survey responses and interviews using thematic analysis 

• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals 

• Attend regular project meetings online and in Sheffield, South Yorkshire

• 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 are 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 week commencing 12th January 2026. This will consist of an online interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 19th January 2026. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact mgt.hr@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 

• A range of generous family-friendly policies

  • paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies

  • support for those going through the menopause

  • paid time off and support for fertility treatment

  • and more

We are a Disability Confident Employer. 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 : 10/01/2026 

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.