Research Assistant in Plant-Based Nutrition

University of Leicester; Leicester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Leicester is seeking talented research assistants to join their ambitious program focusing on the impact of plant-based nutrition on health. Candidates should hold an MSc in a relevant field, have experience in nutritional research, and the ability to work independently. The position offers a competitive salary, excellent pension, and opportunities for professional development within a collaborative environment. The role is full-time, with job share considered, on a fixed-term contract until December 31, 2028.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Excellent pension scheme

Generous annual leave allowance

Qualifications

• Track record within the field of nutritional research.
• Experience or knowledge of working within the NHS.
• Ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the impact of plant-based nutrition on human health.
• Work within a clinical exercise and nutritional interventions setting.
• Collaborate with the Leicester Lifestyle and Health Research Group.

Skills

Communication skills

People management

Nutritional research experience

Education

MSc in a relevant subject area

Job description

About the role

This exciting role offers the opportunity for talented research assistants to join the University of Leicester and the thriving Leicester Lifestyle and Health Research Group hosted within the Diabetes Research Centre and the NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC). Collectively, these groupings provide the most well‑resourced infrastructure for conducting clinical exercise and nutritional interventions in the country.

In this key role, the post holder will have the opportunity to work within an exciting and ambitious new programme of research investigating the impact of plant‑based nutrition on human health.

Please see the accompanying job summary form for a full list of roles and responsibilities, and essential and desirable criteria.

About you

To be successful in the role of you will hold a MSc in a relevant subject area and have a track record within the field of nutritional research with some experience or good knowledge of working within the NHS. You will be able to work independently whilst having excellent communication and people management skills.

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Jack Sargeant on [e-mail].

Applications for job share will be considered.

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying. More information regarding secondments can be found here.

About the University

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

Diversity and Inclusion

As a diverse and forward‑thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

Staff Wellbeing and Sustainability

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Vacancy terms

Full‑time, or job share considered. Fixed‑term contract until 31 December 2028.