PhD (in Progress) Or Postdoc EmpowerESOL Research Assistant

EmpowerESOL is a multi-disciplinary project that will investigate the impact of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes on helping Latin American parents navigate local systems that affect them, whether that?s gaining a deeper understanding of their housing rights or improving their children?s access to educational opportunities. The project aim is also to ultimately increase the representation of Latinx students at King?s and other UK HEIs through the programme.   

The research assistant will gather data from ESOL classes to monitor participation and progress of learners. This role involves developing a literature review and an end of project report in for example the following research areas: Second Language Learning as it relates to adult migrant learners, social mobility & widening participation and the Latin American community in the UK. You will be required to attend regular project meetings with key stakeholders, research guidance meetings with senior advisors and ESOL classes.  

This part-time position offers a fixed-term contract from 1 November 2024 until 1 November 2025, with the possibility of extension subject to funding. Start date and hours will be finalised upon appointment.  

PhD in progress or Postdoc in Modern Languages, ESOL, Applied Linguistics, Sociolinguistics or related field. 

Essential criteria 

1.        PhD (in progress) or Postdoc in Modern Languages, ESOL, Applied Linguistics, Sociolinguistics or related field 

2.        Ability to work independently as well as part of a team  

4.        High levels of competencies in English and Spanish (spoken and written) 

Desirable criteria 

1.        Experience in working with the Latin American community or other migrant communities in London 

2.        Knowledge of ESOL teaching, pedagogy and policy 

3.        Understanding of community organising or other change-making practices 

4.        Experience/knowledge of using participatory research methods