Research Trainee

The Department of Psychology at the University of York is currently seeking a highly motivated Research Trainee for an ESRC-funded project on Word learning from childhood to adulthood, led by Dr. Emma James. This two-year project aims to investigate how word learning evolves with development. As the successful applicant, you will be involved in conducting experimental studies to identify the memory processes that contribute to developmental differences in learning and tracking their maturation over adolescence. This role is ideal for recent graduates eager to enhance their research skills within a supportive academic environment. Competitive candidates will possess a strong interest in developmental psychology, relevant theoretical knowledge, and prior experience working with children and/or in school settings. It is important to note that employment will be contingent upon enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance for working in schools. As part of this role, you will join Learn Lab York within the Department of Psychology, benefiting from strong ties with the Sleep, Language, and Memory, and Developmental research groups. Additionally, the department offers an active Early Career Researcher Forum that provides networking and training opportunities. Your responsibilities will include contributing to the design of experimental studies that pinpoint developmental differences in word learning across different age groups, from mid-childhood to adulthood. You will play a central role in collecting and analyzing data from primary and secondary school children, as well as adults online. Furthermore, you will be involved in disseminating project findings to both school research partners and the academic community through journal articles and conference presentations. Other duties will include assisting with lab activities, such as organizing journal clubs, engaging community stakeholders in research, and maintaining lab documentation. The anticipated start date for this role is 1st October 2025, although a later start date may be negotiable. To be considered for this position, you should hold an undergraduate degree in Psychology or a related field (e.g., Education, Linguistics) with relevant research experience. You should demonstrate the ability to undertake various academic research activities, such as recruiting participants, conducting experiments, and administering assessments. Proficiency in data management and quantitative analysis, particularly in R, is essential. Strong written communication skills are required to contribute effectively to research reports and publications. Additionally, you should be capable of conveying new and complex information to diverse audiences, working both independently and as part of a team, and have experience in a research environment as well as working with children. The interview for this position is scheduled for 1st September 2025 via Zoom. For informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Emma James at emma.james@york.ac.uk. Please note that this role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act, and all applicants will be required to disclose both spent and unspent convictions. The appointment of the successful candidate will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The University of York is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. Applications from individuals identifying as Black, Asian, or from Minority Ethnic backgrounds, who are underrepresented at the University, are particularly encouraged. Flexible working arrangements and inclusive facilities are available to support our staff, promoting equality at York.,