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The Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics is the leading hub for forensic linguistics worldwide. Set up as the Centre for Forensic Linguistics in 2008 by Malcolm Coulthard, it was expanded into a research institute with investment from Research England in 2019.
Our research is innovative, applied, interdisciplinary and impactful. In addition to conducting cutting-edge research, our members teach on the Aston MA in Forensic Linguistics, a programme that consistently enables graduates to secure careers in policing, intelligence analysis and related fields. We also run CPD courses and provide investigative assistance and expert evidence in criminal and civil cases.
Our diverse efforts are united by a common goal - improving the delivery of justice through the analysis of language.
What we're looking for
We are recruiting a Research Assistant to support Dr Nicci MacLeod on her project Talking Rape: Operation Soteria and the Police Interview, funded by a Leverhulme Fellowship. This role, working two days per week for six months, requires working closely with Dr MacLeod, taking the lead on the Jeffersonian transcription of video recorded police interviews collected during rape investigations.
The role will also involve attending meetings as required, conducting literature searches, and helping with the preparation of conference presentations and journal articles. The successful candidate, you will hold an MA in Linguistics which involved a substantial element of spoken discourse analysis.
You will also demonstrable competence at transcription using Jeffersonian conventions, sensitivity around working with data of this nature, and excellent spoken and written communication skills. You will have experience of conducting independent research and demonstrate initiative, contributing to the direction of the research project. The successful applicant will also be required to undergo NPPV 2 police vetting on appointment which will be facilitated and funded by the project.
What we offer
- Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days for full time staff.
- Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
- Great family friendly policies.
- On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
- Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.
The salary being offered for this role does not meet the minimum threshold required to sponsor new applicants to the Skilled Worker visa route. For candidates who do not already have a Skilled Worker visa, it is unlikely that Aston University will be able to offer sponsorship under this route. Please click here to see the Home Office guidance for more information.
About us
Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University’s commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate’s name and address will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process.
Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, including race and sexual orientation, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace.
We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.
