Gain research skills, broaden horizons, and make changes that count. That’s what our candidates love about our Research Placements.
About the role
Collaboratory Research Hub is seeking candidates to undertake one of five part‑time, 12‑week East Midlands Research Placement projects, each focused on local community issues. Each project is supported by a studentship package that includes the following:
- Tax‑free bursary of £2,078 (paid monthly, in arrears).
- Accessible to extensive training and development from the University of Derby, Nottingham Trent University, and the University of Nottingham
- Expert support and guidance from research academics and community professionals.
- Award of a certificate of completion equivalent to FHEQ Level 7
Job locations
Derby and Nottingham
Who are we looking for?
We welcome individuals who are curious, thoughtful, and motivated to solve problems carefully and with attention to detail. You don’t need prior academic research experience. What matters most is your passion for learning, your resilience, and your ability to work independently with self‑motivation. Experience in local community settings is highly valued, as is a genuine commitment to tackling complex issues and making a positive difference. Above all, we’re looking for people who want to grow, broaden their horizons, and contribute meaningfully to communities through their work.
About the Opportunity
Each project explores a real issue affecting communities and gives you the chance to gather insights, speak with local residents and contribute to work that can shape future research and action. You will be supported throughout the placement and will work independently on agreed tasks, with regular check‑ins from your supervisor.
Practical details of the role include:
- Fully flexible working to help fit your personal commitments around your work.
- Part‑time hours (minimum 14 hrs per week) for 12 weeks.
Explore all available projects in full, here: https://collaboratoryresearchhub.ac.uk/east-mids-research-placements-2026/
Derby and Nottingham East Midlands Research Placement Projects
- Mapping “good work” in the East Midlands employment landscape
- What tips the scales?: Understanding how people in the East Midlands make decisions about universal credit and work
- The Digital Divide in the East Midlands: Intersectional Barriers to Skills and Social Connectivity for South Asian Women
- Balancing caring and career: Exploring the impact of caring responsibilities on educational and employment pathways in the East Midlands
- Tackling the “previous experience” paradox for young people looking for work from East Midlands employers
APPLICATION DEADLINE
11.59 pm, Tuesday, 31 March 2026
Interviews (online)
08-10 April 2026
What is Collaboratory?
Collaboratory is a new research programme, led by Universities for Nottingham and the Leicester Universities Partnership, that places community knowledge and experience at the heart of research. This eight-year initiative is pioneering a new approach to collaboration, working closely with local communities and community-focused organisations to develop and deliver research that aligns with the needs and priorities of local communities.
For your application to be considered, you must meet our eligibility criteria. Full details are available on our website at: https://collaboratoryresearchhub.ac.uk/em-placements-eligibility/
How to apply?
For full details of available projects, eligibility criteria, applicant support, and a link to the application form, please visit: https://collaboratoryresearchhub.ac.uk/east-mids-research-placements-2026/
For any informal queries about the roles, please contact the team at: collaboratory@universitiesfornottingham.ac.uk
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