Innovation Research Assistant
Closing Date: 17/02/2026

We are searching for an Innovation Research Assistant to support our creative and forward-thinking innovation team. The main purpose of this role is to support the identification, exploration, and development of new digital and service innovations by working closely with students, staff, and external partners.

The postholder will play a key role in organising and facilitating engagement activities, gathering user insight, and producing clear evidence to inform future innovation projects and pilots.

Main Responsibilities

• Plan, organise, and support student and staff engagement activities, including workshops, focus groups, interviews, and feedback sessions.
• Facilitate innovation and co-design workshops using structured approaches such as design thinking and service design methods.
• Gather, document, and analyse qualitative and quantitative user feedback.
• Prepare reports, summaries, and presentations outlining key insights, themes, and opportunities.
• Support the delivery and evaluation of pilots, prototypes, and proof-of-value projects.
• Conduct desk-based research into emerging technologies, digital tools, and sector trends.
• Maintain records of research activities, participant feedback, and innovation opportunities.
• Support the development of opportunity briefs, business cases, and funding applications.
• Act as a point of contact for students and staff participating in innovation activities.
• Work closely with colleagues to ensure insight and research outputs are shared effectively across the team.
• Assist with administrative and clerical duties related to innovation projects and events.
• Facilitate effective communication within the team to support a coordinated and efficient service.

Essential

• Demonstrate appropriate interest in working with students, graduates, and staff to support IT Partnering and Innovation objectives.
• Demonstrate (with examples) experience of research, engagement, or administrative processes in a busy office, academic, or project-based environment.
• Demonstrate (with examples) experience of working collaboratively and building positive working relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrate (with examples) the ability to present information clearly, accurately, and in an appropriate format.
• Demonstrate how and when they have delivered excellent customer service, including responding to queries in a professional manner.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and facilitate discussion in a calm and professional manner, with a flexible approach to work.
• Strong experience of Microsoft Office software and digital collaboration tools.

Desirable

• Experience of facilitating workshops, focus groups, or engagement sessions.
• Experience using research or evaluation methods such as surveys, interviews, or observation.
• Experience prioritising workload to meet competing deadlines without close supervision.
• Experience using Content Management Systems, survey tools, or data analysis software.
• Awareness of digital innovation, educational technology, or emerging technologies.
• Can share examples of managing multiple tasks, projects, or events.

• Analysing
• Collaboration
• Research
• Curiosity
• Emotional intelligence
• Problem solving
• Self-motivation
• Teamwork