Research Assistant

The opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for a Cognitive Science Researcher to play a key role working on a new cutting-edge UKRI-funded interdisciplinary research project at University of the Arts London (UAL), investigating the age appropriateness of children’s animation.

The Animating Minds project will bring together industry representatives with developmental cognitive neuroscientists, media theorists, creative computing and machine learning experts to develop a computational tool that predicts the neurocognitive impact of video clips on 3 to 6 year old children. 

The AI tool will be a useful instrument for media creatives to check whether content is developmentally appropriate for their target audience. Simultaneously, it will allow parents to make more informed decisions on what their children watch.

As a researcher at the Creative Computing Institute (CCI), you will play a critical role in the day-to-day running of the project under the supervision of the project PI, Prof. Tim Smith and the project’s lead post-doctoral researcher. 

You will be involved in qualitative, quantitative and computational aspects of the project and assist in conducting knowledge exchange activities, including focus groups, interviews, knowledge elicitation activities and data analysis with animators and creative experts from the children’s media industry.  

You will also support the post-doctoral researcher in recruiting families for online behavioural studies, managing the study and processing experimental data. 

The role involves working closely with machine learning and signal processing researchers, assisting in the application of computational models.  

About you

A relevant qualification (e.g. BSc or MSc) or experience in Cognitive Science, Experimental Psychology, Developmental Science, Computer Science, Data Science or related discipline is essential.

You will also need experience of project management/supporting the management of research projects, as well as experience in the processing, analysis, statistical modelling and interpretation of behavioural and/or neurocognitive data. 

A particular interest/experience in studying audiovisual media or their effects would be ideal.

We are UAL

University of the Arts London (UAL) generates and inspires the creativity the world needs for a better future. Since 1842, our colleges have been defining creative education. With curiosity, imagination and intent we make work which creates lasting change for people and our planet. London is core to who we are, a place where we meet and share ideas with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Our creative network influences learning, culture, industry and society on a global scale. Our academics and practitioners deliver creative education and inspire new ways of thinking through research and innovation. We work with students at every level from pre-degree and short courses to postgraduate and online learning, enabling them to build the careers they want. Together, we are a community of makers, thinkers, pioneers and storytellers redesigning the future.

Our culture

We are a global University, welcoming over 22,000 students and 6,000 staff from 130 countries. We aim to be a university where people can be themselves and feel supported to reach their full potential. That’s why we are proud to be members of the Race Equality Charter (REC) and Business Disability Forum, are a Disability Confident Scheme Committed and Living Wage employer and maintain our status as a Stonewall Diversity Champion.

Application process

We operate a fair and open anonymous selection process. Thus, you will need to create an account and submit an application through our job board. As part of this, you will need to provide a supporting statement/answer some competency questions to demonstrate your suitability. Our recruitment process involves: Application, Shortlisting, Interview and Assessment, Offer, Onboarding.

We understand the benefits of using AI in work. But, if you are thinking of using it to submit an application, we ask you to think about what value it adds. AI tools tend to lack the personal touch and authenticity we value in candidates. We encourage you to showcase your unique knowledge and skills using your own voice.

If we receive a high volume of applications, the closing day date might close early. We aim to communicate any changes to the closing date with at least 24 hours’ notice. If you have any general questions or have accessibility needs, please refer to our Contact us page.

Apply

Candidates are advised to submit applications early.

View all jobs