Senior Researcher Developer

Location:

Aston University Main Campus

Salary:

£47,389 per annum

Grade:

Grade 09

Contract Type:

Fixed Term (31/10/2029)

Basis:

Full Time

Closing Date:

23.59 hours GMT on Friday 21 November 2025

Interview Date:

Monday 08 December 2025

Reference:

1013-25

Release Date:

Thursday 30 October 2025

We are seeking a Senior Researcher Developer to work on an exciting and innovative project, Artificial Intelligence Researcher Development Network Plus (AI.RDN+), funded by Research England. You will be based in the Department of Society and Politics, within the School of Law and Social Sciences at Aston University - one of the country's leading institutions for science, technology, and enterprise.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a well-qualified and talented team member to play a central role in a large interdisciplinary and cross-institutional initiative. AI.RDN+ is distinctive in its aim to explore the widespread adoption of publicly available artificial intelligence tools in doctoral research, through inclusive consultation with key stakeholders. The project will use insights gathered through this engagement to encourage the thoughtful and responsible use of AI tools by developing training, support, and guidance for postgraduate research students, supervisors, examiners, and doctoral colleges and schools.

As part of a collaborative, inclusive and supportive work culture, you will take a key role in the design and conduct of a broad consultation process with stakeholders across the doctoral ecosystem, including the analysis and reporting of data. You will also help transform these insights into engaging multimedia resources for stakeholder groups, and contribute to the design, development, piloting, and delivery of training and professional development courses. You will work closely with a large team spanning Aston University and the University of Leeds, as well as with external expert organisations and trusted collaborators. You will also have opportunities to attend conferences and related events, and to prepare outputs for a range of audiences including academics and researchers.

You will hold a doctorate and be confident in designing, organising, and delivering complex workstreams. You will also bring strong experience in data gathering and analysis from a diverse range of people and groups, and in communicating project outcomes. Ideally, you will have a solid background or familiarity with postgraduate research and/or the use of publicly available AI tools. Experience or understanding of researcher development activities would be an advantage.

Informal enquiries should be directed to: Professor Phil Mizen ) or Professor Aniko Ekhart ).

What we offer:

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family friendly policies.
• On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University's commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate's name and address will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process.

The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual's lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit:

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team