Research Assistant

About Us

University of East London (UEL) is a vibrant, diverse, and forward-thinking institution dedicated to transforming lives through exceptional education and career-focused opportunities. As a careers-first university, we have been proudly preparing students for the jobs of the future for 125 years.

The Institute for the Science of Early Years & Youth (ISEY) is a thriving research centre at the University of East London, based in Stratford — at the heart of one of the most diverse regions in the world. Our mission is to advance scientific understanding of how children's early environments, both physical and social, shape their development from infancy through early childhood.

Our interdisciplinary team of over 30 researchers — including postdoctoral fellows and PhD students — works across psychology, neuroscience, and education. Supported by leading funders such as the Medical Research Council and the Economic and Social Research Council, we employ cutting-edge technologies, including bespoke hardware, to capture real-time behavioural, physiological, and eye-tracking data in both naturalistic and controlled settings. Alongside our academic research, we provide training, consultancy, and policy guidance to early years practitioners and organisations.

About the Job

We are seeking a Research Assistant to join our team for a project funded by the Nuffield Trust, based at our Stratford campus. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual with experience working with children and/or in research environments and a strong interest in developmental science.

You will play a key role in the day-to-day running of research studies — working directly with infants and children to record eye-tracking, behavioural, and physiological data (including EEG and fNIRS). You will also support participant recruitment, data management, and analysis while contributing to the smooth running of the lab.

This hands-on role offers an excellent opportunity to develop practical research skills and gain experience working with innovative methodologies within a world-leading developmental science team.

What You'll Need to Thrive

We're looking for someone who is enthusiastic, organised, and passionate about early years research. To thrive in this role, you should have:

• A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (a Master's degree is desirable).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence in engaging with children, families, and colleagues.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in a diverse team.
• A proactive and self-motivated approach, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Good attention to detail, particularly in handling and analysing data.
• Comfort using digital tools and new technologies, with an interest in developing technical and analytical skills.
• A flexible attitude, ready to adapt to the dynamic needs of an active research environment.

How to Apply

If this sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you. Please upload your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and your interest in working with the ISEY team.

Join us in advancing our understanding of child development — and help make a real impact on the future of early years research.

Benefits Package

At UEL, we believe that a great role is about more than just a salary. It's about the complete package, including our outstanding work environment and inclusive culture.

We offer a genuinely competitive salary, dependent on experience (DOE), and a range of excellent benefits.

You can explore our full benefits package here: and academic-positions

Building an Inclusive Future

UEL is an inclusive equal opportunities employer and is proud of our Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion achievements, including a zero gender pay gap, membership in Stonewall, and winning Athena Swan awards. We expect all UEL employees to accept our EDI policy and will not tolerate discrimination in any form.

We're a disability confident employer and value all applications. Please let us know if you require any reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process.

If you're ready to join a University that values your outstanding skills and perspectives and is dedicated to making a difference, we invite you to explore a career with us. We are excited to welcome versatile individuals who are committed to advancing their careers while making a positive impact on the world.

Further Details

Job Description & Person Specification