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Across the University we have a vast variety of roles and career opportunities, which together make us a large and successful community, that is a key hub of activity within our region and nationally.  We would be thrilled if you would consider joining our thriving University.

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Role Descriptor

Project Overview

Join our research project investigating racial equity challenges faced by students from diverse backgrounds in Chemistry (Durham University) and Engineering (Northumbria University). This IGNITE Network-funded project examines how socioeconomic factors, disciplinary differences, and intersectional identities shape student experiences, belonging, and career aspirations in STEM fields.

You'll work alongside academic researchers at Durham and Northumbria Universities to gather data, analyse findings, and develop evidence-based interventions that will directly improve inclusivity and support for underrepresented students in Chemical and Engineering Sciences.

Role Purpose

The project intern will play a vital role in all phases of this mixed-methods research project, from data collection through dissemination. You'll gain hands-on experience in equity-focused research while contributing to meaningful change in STEM education.

Key Responsibilities

·       Carry out research relevant to the project

·       Assist with qualitative data analysis (training will be provided)

·       Contribute to cross-institutional comparative analysis between Durham and Northumbria data

·       Assist in creating data visualizations and summary reports

·       Communicate with Durham and Northumbria research teams

·       Support preparation of workshop materials, certificates, and follow-up communications

·       Support preparation of conference presentations and academic publications

·       Help create accessible summaries of research findings for diverse audiences

Commitment and Compensation

·       Duration: 100 hours

·       Schedule: Typically 4-8 hours per week, with flexibility during term time and some hours after May/June exams

·       Pay: £12.60 per hour

·       Start Date: March/April 2026

·       Location: Primarily Durham University with some virtual collaboration with Northumbria team; potential for 1-2 in-person visits to Northumbria

Benefits:

• Hands-on experience with qualitative research methods (interviews, focus groups)
• Experience working on a funded research project with measurable impact
• Insight into academic research processes from design through publication
• Cross-institutional collaboration skills

Career Benefits:

• Research experience for CV/resume
• Potential co-authorship on publications or conference presentations (depending on contribution level)
• Reference from project supervisors for future applications
• Networking opportunities within Durham, Northumbria, and IGNITE/EDI+ networks
• Transferable skills applicable to research, education, and many other sectors

Academic Enhancement:

• Apply theoretical knowledge from your studies to real-world research
• Experience relevant to dissertation/thesis projects

Essential Skills and Attributes

Research Skills:

• Strong attention to detail and organisational abilities
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle information ethically
• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Comfortable working with qualitative data

Communication:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to interact respectfully and effectively with people from diverse backgrounds
• Active listening skills and cultural sensitivity
• Professional email and meeting etiquette

Technical:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams)
• Comfort learning new software (NVivo training will be provided)
• Ability to conduct online research and information synthesis

Personal Qualities:

• Genuine interest in equity, diversity, and inclusion issues
• Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as collaboratively
• Reliable and committed to meeting deadlines
• Flexible and adaptable to changing project needs
• Reflective and open to learning about power, privilege, and systemic barriers

Desirable (But Not Required)

• Previous engagement with decolonising work or EDI initiatives projects
• Experience with research methods (interviews, surveys, data analysis)
• Lived experience of navigating higher education as a student from an underrepresented background
• Familiarity with Chemistry or Engineering disciplines
• Awareness of challenges faced by students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds in STEM

Eligibility

• Current Durham University undergraduate or postgraduate student
• Available for the full duration of the project
• Able to commit to 4-8 hours per week consistently
• Eligible to work in the UK

How to Apply

Please submit the following:

1. Personal Statement (300 words maximum) addressing:
   • Why you want this role and why it's important to you
   • What you hope to learn from this experience
   • How your values align with the project's EDI focus
2. Skills Statement (300 words maximum) addressing:
   • How you demonstrate the required skills listed above
   • Any relevant experience (academic, work, volunteering, or personal)
   • What unique perspective or contribution you would bring to the project
3. CV/Resume (2 pages maximum)

Interviews will be held in March, with a view to the role beginning March/April 2026.

Questions? Contact Dr. Litka Milian at litka.milian@durham.ac.uk

The below role descriptor seeks to capture the main requirements of the role consistently, providing a summary of the key duties of the flexible role to help in setting expectations for applicants, flexible workers and line managers. They are not intended to cover all duties which may be required.

To apply for the role please complete the online application process, uploading a copy of your CV and covering letter.

Role Descriptor

Project Overview

Join our research project investigating racial equity challenges faced by students from diverse backgrounds in Chemistry (Durham University) and Engineering (Northumbria University). This IGNITE Network-funded project examines how socioeconomic factors, disciplinary differences, and intersectional identities shape student experiences, belonging, and career aspirations in STEM fields.

You'll work alongside academic researchers at Durham and Northumbria Universities to gather data, analyse findings, and develop evidence-based interventions that will directly improve inclusivity and support for underrepresented students in Chemical and Engineering Sciences.

Role Purpose

The project intern will play a vital role in all phases of this mixed-methods research project, from data collection through dissemination. You'll gain hands-on experience in equity-focused research while contributing to meaningful change in STEM education.

Key Responsibilities

·       Carry out research relevant to the project

·       Assist with qualitative data analysis (training will be provided)

·       Contribute to cross-institutional comparative analysis between Durham and Northumbria data

·       Assist in creating data visualizations and summary reports

·       Liaise between Durham and Northumbria research teams

·       Support preparation of workshop materials, certificates, and follow-up communications

·       Support preparation of conference presentations and academic publications

·       Help create accessible summaries of research findings for diverse audiences

Commitment and Compensation

·       Duration: 100 hours

·       Schedule: Typically 4-8 hours per week, with flexibility during term time and some hours after May/June exams

·       Pay: £12.60 per hour

·       Start Date: March/April 2026

·       Location: Primarily Durham University with some virtual collaboration with Northumbria team; potential for 1-2 in-person visits to Northumbria

Benefits:

• Hands-on experience with qualitative research methods (interviews, focus groups)
• Experience working on a funded research project with measurable impact
• Insight into academic research processes from design through publication
• Cross-institutional collaboration skills

Career Benefits:

• Research experience for CV/resume
• Potential co-authorship on publications or conference presentations (depending on contribution level)
• Reference from project supervisors for future applications
• Networking opportunities within Durham, Northumbria, and IGNITE/EDI+ networks
• Transferable skills applicable to research, education, and many other sectors

Academic Enhancement:

• Apply theoretical knowledge from your studies to real-world research
• Experience relevant to dissertation/thesis projects

Essential Skills and Attributes

Research Skills:

• Strong attention to detail and organisational abilities
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle information ethically
• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Comfortable working with qualitative data

Communication:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to interact respectfully and effectively with people from diverse backgrounds
• Active listening skills and cultural sensitivity
• Professional email and meeting etiquette

Technical:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams)
• Comfort learning new software (NVivo training will be provided)
• Ability to conduct online research and information synthesis

Personal Qualities:

• Genuine interest in equity, diversity, and inclusion issues
• Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as collaboratively
• Reliable and committed to meeting deadlines
• Flexible and adaptable to changing project needs
• Reflective and open to learning about power, privilege, and systemic barriers

Desirable (But Not Required)

• Previous engagement with decolonising work or EDI initiatives projects
• Experience with research methods (interviews, surveys, data analysis)
• Lived experience of navigating higher education as a student from an underrepresented background
• Familiarity with Chemistry or Engineering disciplines
• Awareness of challenges faced by students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds in STEM

Eligibility

• Current Durham University undergraduate or postgraduate student
• Available for the full duration of the project
• Able to commit to 4-8 hours per week consistently
• Eligible to work in the UK

How to Apply

Please submit the following:

1. Personal Statement (300 words maximum) addressing:
   • Why you want this role and why it's important to you
   • What you hope to learn from this experience
   • How your values align with the project's EDI focus
2. Skills Statement (300 words maximum) addressing:
   • How you demonstrate the required skills listed above
   • Any relevant experience (academic, work, volunteering, or personal)
   • What unique perspective or contribution you would bring to the project
3. CV/Resume (2 pages maximum)

Interviews will be held in March, with a view to the role beginning March/April 2026.

Questions? Contact Dr. Litka Milian at litka.milian@durham.ac.uk