Job Overview and Advice for Applicants: Research Assistant/Associate in Systems Thinking

What is This Job All About?

This exciting role offers a chance to work at the forefront of interdisciplinary research in global health, environmental science, and systems thinking. Based at the prestigious School of Public Health at Imperial College London, you’ll be part of an internationally recognized team investigating the links between environmental change and the double burden of malnutrition-a critical global health issue where countries face both undernutrition and rising rates of obesity and diet-related diseases.

The project, funded by the Medical Research Council, focuses on Peru, a country grappling with these interconnected challenges in the face of global environmental shifts. You’ll be an integral part of an international and multidisciplinary research team and will work closely with local researchers, policymakers, and communities in Peru to co-develop solutions to these pressing issues. It’s an opportunity to apply and advance cutting-edge systems dynamics methods and to generate practical insights with real-world relevance while contributing to academic publications and policymaking.

This role is open at both Research Assistant and Research Associate levels, making it a valuable stepping stone whether you aspire to pursue a PhD or are looking to grow in your postdoctoral research career.

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What Will You Be Doing?

In this role, you’ll be involved in varied and meaningful work, including:

1. Developing a Systems Dynamics Model: Collaborating with international partners to model the relationships between environmental change, malnutrition, and health outcomes in Peru.
2. Stakeholder Engagement: Helping to design and facilitate workshops with Peruvian stakeholders, including policymakers, community representatives, and researchers. These workshops, using participatory research methods, will ensure local perspectives and knowledge are central to shaping the research.
3. Literature Review and Synthesis: Conducting in-depth reviews of existing research to inform model development and interpretation.
4. Disseminating Knowledge: Writing academic papers, presenting findings to diverse audiences (e.g., academic conferences, community stakeholders, policymakers), and helping to amplify the project’s impact globally.
5. Cross-Level Collaboration: Depending on your role, you might also lead specific research activities or contribute to guiding junior researchers in the team.

The interdisciplinary and international nature of this project offers a deeply enriching experience that bridges academic research and practical policy solutions-making it rewarding both intellectually and professionally.

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Advice for Applicants: An International Education Perspective

If you’re considering applying for this position, here’s how to make your application stand out:

1. Highlight Your Interdisciplinary Knowledge and Systems Thinking Expertise:

– Showcase your background in systems dynamics, public health, social sciences, environmental studies, or a related field. Demonstrate how your skills align with this interdisciplinary project.
– Emphasize your ability to think critically and holistically, connecting different domains such as health, environment, and policy.

2. Demonstrate Cultural Competence and International Insight:

– With a focus on Peru, this project requires sensitivity to cross-cultural collaboration and stakeholder engagement. Mention past experiences working in international or multicultural settings or with underrepresented communities.
– Specific knowledge or experience related to Latin America or global health challenges in low- or middle-income countries (LMICs) will be a significant advantage.

3. Illustrate Your Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Skills:

– The role emphasizes participatory research methods and stakeholder involvement. Explain how you’ve effectively communicated with diverse groups, whether academic, policy-based, or community-centered.
– Experience in designing or facilitating workshops, focus groups, or collaborative research approaches will strengthen your application.

4. Showcase Your Academic and Research Contributions:

– Whether applying for the Research Assistant or Research Associate level, emphasize your ability to conduct high-quality research. Include examples of literature reviews, prior work on interdisciplinary research projects, and any peer-reviewed publications.
– For Research Associate applicants, discuss your leadership experience in managing research activities or mentoring others.

5. Address Key Technical Skills and Openness to Fieldwork:

– Indicate your proficiency in any analytical tools or software (e.g., for systems modeling) as this will likely be a key component of the role.
– Show your eagerness to engage in fieldwork and travel. This is an excellent opportunity to connect directly with the project’s context, so be ready to discuss how travel enhances your research perspective.

6. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter Thoughtfully:

– In your cover letter, articulate why this specific project excites you, how it aligns with your career aspirations, and what unique skills or ideas you bring. Tailor your CV to emphasize the most relevant experiences.

7. Consider Language Skills:

– Although not explicitly mentioned, knowledge of Spanish (the official language of Peru) could be an asset for collaboration. Highlight any language skills or your willingness to learn.

8. Reflect Passion for Global Challenges:

– Frame your motivation as stemming from a deep commitment to addressing urgent global issues such as climate change and malnutrition. Evidence of a strong vision for how academic research can create impactful change will resonate with the hiring committee.

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Opportunities Beyond the Role

This position could be a launching pad for an impactful career in global health or environmental research. It provides opportunities to:

• Collaborate with leading experts at Imperial College London and partners in Peru.
• Work on a funded, cutting-edge project with real-world impact.
• Build your career with access to Imperial College’s research training programs and career development schemes.
• Gain exposure through publishing in top journals and presenting at international conferences.

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Key Application Information

Take note of the following:

• Contract Terms: This is a fixed-term, 36-month full-time appointment ending in September 2028.
• Salary & Benefits: Competitive compensation with sector-leading benefits, including extensive leave and pension schemes.
• Deadlines: Apply early, as the job listing may close once the hiring threshold is met.
• Contact Details: Should you have any queries, you can reach out to the project lead, Paraskevi Seferidi, at paraskevi.seferidi14@imperial.ac.uk.

This role offers not just a job but an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while advancing your academic and professional career. Don’t miss your chance to contribute to tackling today’s most pressing health and environmental challenges on a global stage! 🌍