Researcher in Technical and Vocational Education and Training

About the University

We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better.

The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region.

We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes. 

Financially strong and seriously ambitious we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.

About the College/Department

The College of Arts, Humanities and Education at the University of Derby aims to become a leading institution for education, research, and knowledge sharing in arts, humanities and education. We will strive to provide exceptional teaching and learning experiences for our students, and our research and knowledge exchange programmes will be globally recognised. We are committed to fostering positive change in society by working collaboratively with our partners and communities and inspiring our students and staff to make a meaningful impact. Through the provision of excellent teaching and learning, and world-leading research and knowledge exchange we seek to make a positive contribution to the world through innovation, discovery and creativity about thought and expression and by cultivating intellectual breadth and critical thinking, working ethically, developing a clear identity, being inclusive and embracing difference. 

About the Role

The Researcher in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) will contribute to the College’s mission by advancing research in this critical field. The primary purpose of the role is to support and develop international research initiatives, including the preparation of an application for a major European grant. The postholder will take an active role in structuring funding proposals, organizing workshops and conferences, and contributing to the work of the TVET Research Cluster. This is a unique opportunity to manage and lead your own research activities while collaborating on significant team projects. The successful candidate will support undergraduate and postgraduate research, contribute to collaborative and individual funding bids, and work closely with colleagues to foster academic and professional networks. This role will also provide the postholder with the chance to develop expertise in grant applications and project management, with the support of an experienced and dynamic team.  

Please note, this is a part-time position working 29.6 hours per week.

Proposed Interview Date - 4th April 2025

About You

We are seeking a candidate in a relevant discipline or equivalent professional experience. You will have proven experience in supporting research funding applications and a strong familiarity with digital tools and methodologies. Excellent written and oral communication skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders are essential. The ideal candidate will have a track record of engaging in high-quality research, a proactive and team-oriented mindset, and a commitment to professional development. While not essential, experience in publishing research, presenting at conferences, and generating research or knowledge exchange income would be highly advantageous.

Benefits

Generous annual leave entitlement of 47 days inclusive of bank holidays and concessionary days (pro rata) Teacher’s Pension Scheme Suite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family-friendly policies, generous sick pay provision and comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme Access to a variety of staff discounts at high street retailers Discounted onsite gym Discounted access to Devonshire Spa Cycle to Work scheme A flexible working environment A commitment to personal and professional development 

Key Contact

For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Johannes Karl Schmees, Associate Professor (Research) in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Post-14 Education via j.schmees@derby.ac.uk

For enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@derby.ac.uk

Important Information

The University is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this role; however, applications are welcome from candidates who are able to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK. 

Please visit our website for more information.

Closing Date: 27 Mar 2025

Area: Teaching and Research

Salary: £28,879 to £43,878