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Postdoctoral Researcher (0.6 FTE)


An Evaluation of the Diploma in Foundation Studies Access Programme at University of Galway, UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre, School of Political Science and Sociology
Ref. No. 010855

JOB ADVERTISEMENT
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a part-time fixed term position (0.6FTE- 3 days per week) as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre at the University of Galway, Ireland.

This position is funded by the Higher Education Authority Performance Fund via the University of Galway Access Office. The post will commence on the 1st March 2025 to contract end date of 31st October 2025.

The appointee will work on a team in evaluating the Diploma in Foundation Studies - Access Programme at University of Galway, using a Social Return on Investment (SROI) Approach. The work will focus on three interlinked work packages ranging from the design and implementation of the SROI study, to the development of an evaluation framework for future Access Programme iterations as well as supporting the inclusion of a PPI (Public and Patient Involvement) approach to the work.

Salary: Postdoctoral Salary scale €44,846 - €57,332 per annum, (subject to the project’s funding limitations), and pro rata for shorter and/or part-time contracts.


The default position for all new public sector appointments is the 1st point of the salary scale. This may be reviewed, and consideration afforded to appointment at a higher point on the PayScale (subject to the project’s funding limitations), where evidence of prior years’ equivalent experience is accepted in determining placement on the scale above point 1, subject to the maximum of the scale.

(Research Salary Scales - University of Galway)

Employment permit restrictions apply for this category of post.

NB: Garda vetting is a requirement for this post (as appropriate to Child Protection Policy)


Closing date for receipt of applications is 17:00 (Irish Time) on 23/01/2025. It will not be possible to consider applications received after the closing date.
*Please review full job description for further details and essential requirement

Job Description:
The successful candidate will work on a team in evaluating the Diploma in Foundation Studies - Access Programme at University of Galway, using a Social Return on Investment (SROI) Approach. The work will focus on three interlinked work packages ranging from the design and implementation of the SROI study, to the development of an evaluation framework for future Access Programme iterations as well as supporting the inclusion of a PPI (Public and Patient Involvement) approach to the work.

Duties:
Research

  • Conduct a specified programme of research and scholarship under the supervision and direction of your Principal Investigator.
  • Determine appropriate methodologies for research, with advice and support as appropriate.
  • Keep up to date with research related methods and techniques, in particular, developments in the specific research area.
  • Collaborate with colleagues on areas of shared research interest.
  • To have knowledge and understanding of the policy, practices and procedures relevant to the role.

Research Administration

  • To complete the administrative work to support the programme of research
  • To carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.
  • Know the legal requirements regarding data protection and confidentiality data protection requirements.

Dissemination

  • To be familiar with the publication process and work with the PI and Team to publish from the study.
  • Present on research progress and outcomes e.g. conferences,

Research Supervision Training

  •  Engage in appropriate training and professional development opportunities as required by your Principal Investigator, your School or Institute, or the University.
  • Develop their own career reputation and career development
  •  Acquire generic and transferable skills (including project management, business skills and postgraduate mentoring/supervision).

Wider Activities

  • Engage in the wider research and scholarly activities of your research group, School and Institute.
  • Any other duties assigned commensurate to this level of post.

Essential Requirements:

  • A PhD in applied social science or cognate discipline
  • Be an accredited practitioner in the Social Return on Investment Methodology or related methodologies
  • Have a thorough knowledge of Adult Education and /or Alternative Education Provision
  •  Have a track record of working in a Team for applied social science research and evaluation
  • Have experience in qualitative data collection and analysis.

Desirable Requirements:

  • Have a track record in academic publishing
  •  Be proficient in quantitative data analysis
  • Have experience in securing funding

Continuing Professional Development/Training:

Researchers at University of Galway are encouraged to avail of a range of training and development opportunities designed to support their personal career development plans. University of Galway provides continuing professional development supports for all researchers seeking to build their own career pathways either within or beyond academia. Researchers are encouraged to engage with our Researcher Development Centre (RDC) upon commencing employment - see HERE for further information.

Further Information/Links

For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Cormac Forkan

Email: Cormac.forkan@universityofgalway.ie