Research Assistant

Temporary (maternity cover) – Full Time 37 hours per week

The Risk Management Authority (RMA) is a Non Departmental Public Body reporting to the Scottish Government for responsibilities, which focus on protecting the public by ensuring that robust and effective management practices are in place to reduce the risk of serious harm posed by violent and sexual offenders.

The Role

The Research Assistant will fulfil an important role in the delivery of RMA functions to promote and support evidence-based, ethical risk practice that reduces reoffending and the harm that it causes.

The role involves working with RMA staff and stakeholders to contribute to a range of research projects that advance effective practice in the field of risk assessment and risk management; support the development and evaluation of risk practice methods; and provide the evidence base for training initiatives and the publication of standards and guidelines.

The post holder will primarily contribute to a qualitative research study within the Order for Lifelong Restriction team. This study will focus on the individual’s sentenced to an OLR who have been released from custody; their experiences of the sentence and release; and where applicable, recall to custody and the circumstances in which this occurred. The post holder may also contribute to ongoing research projects in the Development team.

The Person

The successful candidate will be educated to degree level with a relevant professional / post graduate qualification; and possess prior experience of conducting qualitative and quantitative research. The post holder will be able to demonstrate a sound knowledge of qualitative research methods and proficiency in the application of such techniques. Knowledge and understanding of quantitative analysis is also desirable, including the use of Excel and SPSS. Enhanced report writing skills and strong communications, facilitation and presentation skills are essential.

Knowledge of the criminal justice system and the research literature on risk assessment and risk management would be desirable.

Full details of the Research Assistant main accountabilities can be found within the job description and person specification.

Terms and Conditions

The RMA offers excellent conditions of employment, which include 25 days annual leave, 11½ days public/privilege holidays, flexible working hours and pension.

The post of Research Assistant is a Grade 3 temporary (maternity cover) post with a salary range of £28,168 to £31,869.

Enquiries

To arrange a confidential discussion about the position or any process queries please contact Lucy Jackman at recruitment@rma.gov.scot or call 0141 278 4478.

Application Information

The application pack including a job description and application form is available for download from our website https://www.rma.scot/vacancy-research-assistant/. Alternatively, you can request an application pack by contacting our office on 0141 278 4478 or via email to recruitment@rma.gov.scot.

Key Dates in the Process

Closing date for applications is Friday the 30th of April 2021.

Interviews week commencing Monday 17th May 2021.