It is important to note that this job description is a guide to the work you will be required to undertake. It may be changed from time to time to meet changing circumstances. It does not form part of your contract of employment. Job description for the post of: Research Assistant for the Patient s (Children s) Virtual Guide project EHR0060-0218 Fixed term full time for 14 months Accountable to: Reporting to: Dean of Faculty of Health and Social Care Professor Lucy Bray The Post This post is part of an Innovate UK research award which is investigating the benefits of a virtual guide for children coming to hospital for clinical procedures such as X-rays, blood tests and medical examinations. The post holder will be a key member of the team and will have responsibility for undertaking data collection within a children s hospital. Data collection will involve the use of quantitative measures, structured observation and qualitative interviews with children and their parents. The post-holder will also contribute to data entry and analysis. Experience of undertaking research with children and young people is desirable as is the ability to undertake research within health care settings. The successful candidate should be familiar with the principles of ethical conduct in research and in particular those ethical issues that specifically pertain to working with children and their parents. This is an exciting opportunity for a researcher to make a major contribution to an important project, to join the staff within the Children, Young People and Families theme in Faculty of Health and Social Care. Duties and responsibilities The post holder will report to Professor Lucy Bray. The post holder will be expected to carry out the following as and when required.
Responsibilities a) Work within the study team to assist in the collection of data in line with the needs of the study (both qualitative and quantitative research components). b) Assist in the development of materials (e.g. information sheets, consent forms) to underpin the recruitment and data collection. c) Assist in the co-ordination of data collection with other team members and health care professionals within the hospital setting. d) Assist in the process of data analysis. e) Contribute to the drafting of reports and articles. f) Engage with the children, parents and professionals in the study in a way which is sensitive to their needs. g) Work collaboratively with staff within and external to the research team and communicate appropriately to support the smooth running of the study. h) Participate in relevant professional activities and personal development that is appropriate to the study and which will enhance performance. i) Assist in monitoring the progress of the project and seek ways of improving performance by reflecting on involvement in the study. j) Ensure compliance with ethical approval, data management, university liability and health and safety requirements in all aspects of work. Duties a) Undertake day-to-day research activity including recruitment of children, young people and families, the collection of data and contribution to analysis. b) Travel as required in relation to data collection, attending meetings and training. c) Attend and contribute to research meetings as required, including face-to-face meetings and remote meetings. d) Communicate with study team effectively and be able to present feedback on progress and outcomes of the study. e) Contribute to the dissemination of the study to internal stakeholders and externally via papers at conferences, study days, national and international meetings, as appropriate. f) Review and synthesise existing research literature pertinent to the study. g) Contribute to written work for submission to high quality peer reviewed journals. h) Keep detailed records of research meetings, events and contact with children and parents/carers in line with data protection policies. i) Identify and report any concerns encountered using appropriate strategies. 2
In addition to the above duties all staff are required to: a) Participate in Edge Hill University s Performance Review scheme. b) Respect confidentiality. Confidential information should be kept in confidence and not released to unauthorised persons. c) Comply with legislation and adhere to Edge Hill University s policies and procedures and attend appropriate training as required, including Health and Safety. d) Manage and enhance their own personal performance. e) Undertake appropriate learning and development activities as required f) Participate in work-related training and staff development. g) Adhere to Edge Hill University s environment policy and guidelines and undertake tasks in a sustainable manner. h) Demonstrate excellent Customer Care in dealing with all customers It is expected that the post-holder will work flexibly according to the on-going demands of the job. Salary: 29,799-32,548 Grade 7, Points 27-30 Hours : 37 hours per week Candidates should note that shortlisting will be based on information provided on the application form with regard to the applicant s ability to meet the criteria outlined in the Person Specification attached. It is important to note that the successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service and that this will form part of the conditions of offer of employment. The candidates shortlisted will undergo an interview which will comprise of:- 1. A short presentation (10 mins) describing a previous project or piece of work in which they undertook research and engaged effectively with children, young people and their families. 2. A structured interview conducted by key members of the Children, Young People and Families Research Theme. 3
PERSON SPECIFICATION Research Assistant for the Patient s (Children s) Virtual Guide project EHR0060-0218 Fixed term for 14 months CRITERIA Applicants should provide evidence of their ability to meet the following criteria: Qualifications Essential Desirable Method of Assessment A high level of academic achievement evidenced by a good first level degree and a Masters degree PhD or other Postgraduate research degree Experience, skills and knowledge Excellent interpersonal skills to ensure sensitive working with children, young people, parents/carers and health professionals Ability to explain the research to potential participants and to gain informed consent/assent as appropriate Previous research experience with children, young people and parents/carers Experience of collecting quantitative and qualitative data within a health or social care setting Previous experience of using word processing, data analysis software and bibliographic databases Demonstrated excellent organisational skills with a proven ability to prioritise and meet scheduled deadlines. Ability to work independently and as part of a team /P /P /P /P 4
Understanding and respect for confidentiality and data protection legislation. Ability to reflect on own skills and knowledge, and to seek opportunities for professional and personal development. Willingness and ability to travel to meetings/conferences/events. Willingness and ability to work flexibly to meet the needs of children, young people and parents. Full clean UK driving licence and car with business insurance. 5