Research Assistant - CIRCLE Project: Caring in Relation to Career, Life and Employment

Research Assistant - CIRCLE Project: Caring in Relation to Career, Life and Employment Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the following position of #003295 - Research Assistant - CIRCLE Project: Caring in Relation to Career, Life and Employment, Fixed Term Contract - 6 months 0.5 FTE Role Profile We now wish to recruit a Research Assistant on a part-time basis (0.5 FTE) for six months to support the administration and delivery of the CIRCLE project. The CIRCLE project (Caring in Relation to Career, Life and Employment) seeks to explore and amplify the voices of family carers through participatory, qualitative research methods that prioritise inclusion, trust and co-ownership of findings. The research examines how Ireland’s employment and social protection policies can better support individuals balancing unpaid caregiving with paid work. In partnership with Family Carers Ireland, the project adopts a co-production approach to generate evidence-informed recommendations aimed at strengthening carer-inclusive workplace practices and public policy. The Research Assistant will play a key role in engaging directly with family carers and collecting qualitative data through interviews and focus groups. The postholder must demonstrate excellent communication skills, empathy, professionalism, and the ability to build rapport with participants, some of whom may be discussing sensitive or emotionally demanding experiences. Overview of Family Carers Ireland Family Carers Ireland (FCI) is the national charity supporting and representing Ireland’s 500,000+ family carers - who care for loved ones such as children or adults with additional needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, those with palliative care needs or those living with chronic illnesses, mental health challenges or addiction. FCI provides free nationwide, direct supports and services to family carers, advocates for improved policy and legislative recognition, and works to ensure their voices are central in shaping health, social care, and employment policy. Through its national reach and strong community engagement, FCI plays a vital role in amplifying the lived experiences of family carers and promoting more inclusive and sustainable supports for those balancing unpaid care with other life and work responsibilities. Salary Scale: IUA Research Assistant Salary Scale (Point 1) - €33,791.00 Appointment will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and in line with current Government pay policy. Closing Date: Monday, 30th March 2026 Additional Information Please note this role does not meet criteria for a Critical Skills permit as stipulated by the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment. For more information on the School visit https://www.dcu.ie/snpch Informal Enquiries in relation to this role should be directed to: Dr. Ciara White, Dublin City University. Phone + 353 (0)1 700 7808 Email: ciara.white@dcu.ie Please do not send applications to this email address, instead apply as described below. Application Procedure: Please submit your application through the online system. In order to be considered for the role to which you are applying for, you must upload: 1)  Curriculum Vitae 2)  Cover Letter 3)  Completed application form (blank forms can be downloaded from the bottom of the Vacancy). Please note, if all items are not uploaded, the application will be deemed incomplete, and will not be processed. Dublin City University is an equal opportunities employer. In line with the Employment Equality Acts 1998 – 2015, the University is committed to equality of treatment for all those who engage with its recruitment, selection and appointment processes. We will provide support and accommodations to ensure all candidates, including those with disabilities, can fully participate in the process. The University’s Athena Swan Silver Award signifies the University’s commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing any gender pay gaps.  Information on a range of university policies aimed at creating a supportive and flexible work environment are available in the DCU Policy Starter Packs #LI-Hybrid Contact Email : talent@dcu.ie Contact No : +00353 1 700 5149 Click on the link(s) below to view documents Filesize Notes Application Form 49.1 Job Description 4547.2 Return to Search Apply for Job