Research Assistant (Food Security)

About the role

The main purpose of the role is to develop and implement, under the supervision of the principal investigator and the co-investigator, a comprehensive research program focused on evaluating selected food markets in London, as part of the UCL Grand Challenges-funded research project titled "Leveraging Bottom-up Food Markets to Build Resilience and Decarbonisation in Food Systems: Lessons from London." This role is situated within the broader context of UCL's Grand Challenges initiative, which aims to address complex societal issues through interdisciplinary research. The post-holder will contribute to the understanding of food security challenges in urban environments, particularly in light of recent global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts that have impacted food systems. This role encompasses several key responsibilities and objectives. First, the role entails contributing to the critical analysis of current food policy, focusing on trade regulations, subsidies, and incentives that affect sustainable food production and consumption in London. Secondly, the post-holder is also expected to contribute to outputs aimed at various audiences (public, policymakers, and academics), supporting the writing of policy recommendations, and also a larger research grant. Thirdly, the role might also lead to the writing of joint academic papers, in addition to pursuing personal development, establishing collaborations in London, the UK, and internationally.

About you

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in interdisciplinary research on food security, along with a proven commitment to innovative research methods and data analysis in this field. They should have experience in data collection and analysis to support and co-produce research publications, as well as to inform policy and decision-making processes.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer some great benefits some of which are below: 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days) Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE) Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan On-Site nursery On-site gym Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service Discounted medical insurance