Overview
As a Research Assistant, you will work directly with Dr Liam Healy and Dr Eva Haifa Giraud (Sociology), and Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust (SRWT) on the project ‘Prototyping Multi-species Encounters: Relating to Redmires Reservoirs’ Residents’, a design-research project funded by EPSRC Ecological Citizens, exploring how design might foster inclusive more-than-human (MtH) futures while building nature-connectedness among visitors to Redmires Reservoirs, one of SRWT’s sites.
The aim of this project is to explore how designers might complement SRWT’s conservation expertise with design-research, developing communications and public engagement strategies to engage publics in SRWT activities. We also seek to contribute to debates about how to discourage damaging actions in ‘wild places’ that do not create further barriers to overlooked communities by adopting an approach informed by emerging literature in multi-species justice. This is a fixed term 6 month contract requiring 2 days a week to be worked between fieldwork, studio and workshop settings.
Note: This is an opportunity to explore how design and design-research can foster more inclusive MtH futures and to contribute to a gallery exhibition and public engagement activities hosted by the University of Sheffield School of Architecture and Landscape.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
* Support the design, manufacture and deployment of research devices
* Idea generation, development and production of prototypes
* Support the organisation and running of public facing workshops
* Support the design and installation of final exhibition
* Contribute to the project write-up and conference presentation
Person Specification
* An MA or BA in Design, Architecture, or related discipline
* Demonstrate a track record of designing, making and prototyping (physical and digital) at a variety of scales and materials
* Good written and verbal communication skills
* Strong visual communication skills with experience of graphic design and related software applications
* Good interpersonal skills and willingness to work with a range of publics
* Good time management
* Evidence of the ability to work with a variety of materials, digital platforms and processes
* Basic knowledge of literature in science and technology studies, multi-species justice and related sub-fields
Further Information
Grade: 6.3
Work arrangement: Part-time 0.4 FTE
Duration: 6 months, commencing on 2nd February 2026
Direct reports: N/A
For informal enquiries about this job contact
Liam Healy, Principal Investigator: on liam.healy@sheffield.ac.uk
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place mid November 2025. This will consist of Portfolio review and Interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 3rd November 2025. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact Gemma Fearnley-Cook on g.l.fearnley-cook@sheffield.ac.uk
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).
What We Offer
* A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
* A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
* A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development.
* Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
* A commitment to your development; access to learning and mentoring schemes integrated with our Academic Career Pathways
* A range of generous family-friendly policies
* Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
* Support for those going through the menopause
* Paid time off and support for fertility treatment
* And more
Closing Date: 12/10/2025
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