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Research Assistant Position:

Investigating BPOC-led Creative Spaces and Mental Health Outcomes in Scotland

Creative Balance is seeking a Research Assistant to join an innovative research project exploring the intersection of mental health, creative spaces, and racial equity in Scotland's creative industries. This position is part of the Creative Balance initiative, supported by We Are Here Scotland and funded by The Baring Foundation and Creative Scotland. This position is funded by Engender.

About the Project

Creative Balance is conducting transformative research into how BPOC-led creative spaces function as protective factors for mental health within Scotland's creative sector. This research will contribute to evidence-based policy recommendations and practical frameworks for developing mental health-supportive creative environments.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the implementation of a mixed-methods research approach, including:

    • Conducting and analysing qualitative interviews with BPOC creatives

    • Administering quantitative surveys on mental health outcomes

    • Participating in ethnographic observation of BPOC-led spaces

    • Facilitating focus groups and community engagement activities

  • Assist in data collection, management, and analysis

  • Contribute to the development of research materials and documentation

  • Support the preparation of research findings and recommendations

  • Collaborate with project stakeholders and community partners

Essential Requirements

  • Lived experience as a Black person or Person of Colour

  • Based in Scotland

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Social Sciences, Psychology, Arts & Culture, Public Health) OR

  • Research experience or demonstrated interest in community-based research

  • Strong understanding of intersectionality and BPOC experiences in creative industries

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to work sensitively with diverse communities

Desirable Qualifications

  • Experience in the Scottish creative sector

  • Knowledge of mental health and wellbeing frameworks

  • Familiarity with mixed-methods research approaches

  • Experience in community engagement or participatory research

  • Understanding of Scottish Cultural Policy Landscape

What We Offer

  • Fixed-term contract (6 months)

  • Part-time position (10.25 hours per week)

  • Hourly rate of £15 per hour

  • Total contract wage £3,997.50

  • Access to therapeutic support from independent BPOC practitioners with sessions arranged at your convenience

  • Opportunity to contribute to transformative research

  • Collaboration with existing BPOC creative professionals

  • Flexible working arrangements

  • Access to dedicated research funding for project activities

  • Potential progression onto future projects

Project Partners

This research is conducted in collaboration with We Are Here Scotland and is funded by Engender, Creative Scotland and The Baring Foundation. 

How to Apply

Please submit either:

Written Application:

  • Your CV

  • A cover letter explaining your interest in and suitability for the role

  • A brief statement (500 words max) describing your perspective on the relationship between creative spaces and mental health in BPOC communities

OR

Video/Audio Application (maximum 8 minutes total):

  • Brief introduction and overview of relevant experience (3-4 minutes, equivalent to CV highlights)

  • Why you're interested in this role and what you would bring to it (2-3 minutes, equivalent to cover letter)

  • Your perspective on creative spaces and mental health in BPOC communities (2 minutes, equivalent to 500-word statement)

Recruitment Process

Stage 1: Application

  • Job advertisement posted across various platforms including networks, creative industry channels, and mental health organisations

  • Deadline for applications: Friday, 29th November 5pm 

Stage 2: Shortlisting

  • Applications will be reviewed by the selection panel

  • Shortlisting will be conducted 2nd December

  • Successful candidates will be notified 3rd December

Stage 3: Interviews

  • Short-listed candidates will be invited for a short interview on 9th & 10th December

  • Interviews will last no longer than 30 minutes 

  • Interviews will be conducted by representatives from Creative Balance

  • Adjustments and flexible interview formats available upon request

  • Interviews will be held remotely 

Stage 4: Final Selection

  • Reference checks will be conducted

  • The successful candidate will be notified and receive formal offer by 13th December

  • Comprehensive onboarding process provided

  • Expected start date: Monday, 27th January 2025

Equal Opportunities

This position is specifically designed for Black people and People of Colour as part of our commitment to addressing structural inequalities in research and the creative industries. This specification is made in accordance with the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1.

Application Deadline

5pm, Friday 29th November 2024

Contact

For questions, more information or to submit your application, please contact: hello@creativebalance.scot

Creative Balance is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive research environment that celebrates diverse perspectives and experiences.