Research Assistant – Social Network Data Analysis

University of Edinburgh Information Services Group

. Conduct desk-based research on social network data gathered in Northern Kenya and Southern Ethiopia .

Posted 11/11/2026part-timeEdinburgh • United KingdomMid-LevelSenior💰 £35,302 - £40,704 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in social network analysis using R and/or Python, with a strong ability to design and conduct mixed-methods research, including online surveys and semi-structured interviews. Capable of collaborating with diverse researchers and effectively communicating findings through academic reports and peer-reviewed publications.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Social Network AnalysisR ProgrammingPython ProgrammingMixed Methods ResearchAcademic Writing

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Social Network AnalysisMixed Methods ResearchOnline Survey DesignSemi-Structured InterviewsWorkshop OrganisationResearch Project DesignAcademic Report WritingPeer-Reviewed Journals

Soft Skills

Independent WorkCollaboration

Industry Keywords

Social Network DataClimate-Information NetworksPastoralistsResearch Collaboration

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Python

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Conduct desk-based research on social network data gathered in Northern Kenya and Southern Ethiopia
Use social network analysis in R and/or Python
Organise and map social network data
Identify positions, roles, hierarchies, cohesion, and information flow among network actors
Contribute to understanding climate-information networks among pastoralists
Collaborate with researchers and partners including Alliance Biodiversity CIAT and the University of Nairobi
Design online surveys, conduct semi-structured interviews, and organise workshop discussions
Write up research projects in academic reports and peer-reviewed journals

Requirements

What you’ll need

Experience using mixed methods
Experience designing online surveys
Experience conducting semi-structured interviews
Experience organising workshop discussions
Experience designing research projects
Experience writing academic reports and peer-reviewed journals
Ability to work independently
Ability to work with researchers from a range of disciplinary backgrounds
Experience using social network analysis in R and/or Python
Right to work in the UK
Applicants requiring sponsorship will not be considered

Benefits

Comp & perks

Flexible working patterns
Hybrid working combining remote and regular on-campus working
Generous annual leave entitlement
Defined benefits pension scheme
Wide range of staff discounts
Family-friendly initiatives
Flexible work options
Staff wellbeing support
Professional development and career growth opportunities
Diverse and vibrant international community