EDF Research Network: Internship/Volunteer opportunity

Job Title / Intern/volunteer, EDF Research Network
Location / London WC1 H 9NA
Duration/days / 6 months minimum/2 days per week (negotiable)
Closing date for applications / 5pm Wednesday 22 May 2013 (extended deadline)
Interviews / Wednesday 29 May
Start date / Week commencing Monday 10 June
Salary / Unpaid (expenses covered)

We are looking for an intern/volunteer to support the work of the Equality and Diversity Forum Research Network, in particular to develop and populate the website, expand the membership of equality and human rights researchers, and help organise Network events and seminars.

The EDF Research Network

The Equality and Diversity Forum (EDF)is a network of national organisations committed to equal opportunities, social justice, good community relations, respect for human rights and an end to all forms of discrimination. EDF hosts theEquality and Diversity Forum Research Network – a multi-disciplinary equality and human rights network bringing together academics, policy makers, NGOs and funders to inform and improve UK policy and legislation. The Network was established in 2010 and is chaired by Professor Sandra Fredman (Oxford University), Professor Lizzie Barmes (Queen Mary University of London) and Dr Tania Burchardt (LSE).

The position

The post-holder will be asked to carry out some regular core tasks but there are also plenty of opportunities to take the lead on specific projects and pieces of work, and scope to shape the post to suit particular interests.

Core tasks include:

  • enlisting new members to the Network and updating membership records;
  • posting information on the website and general website maintenance;
  • event administration – sending invitations, preparing seminar packs etc.

Examples of recent projects led by Research Network interns/volunteers are:

  • designing a survey on how voluntary organisations use equality and human rights research in their work;
  • developing a new website section with resources for researchers;
  • drawing up the programme,and identifying and liaising with speakers for a Research Network seminar on housing inequalities.

The post-holder will have the opportunity to learn about the equality and human rights agenda and engage with key researchers in the field. S/he will also have the opportunity to engage with EDF’s wider programme of work and attend EDF and Research Network events with NGO representatives and policy officials.

The post might be of particular interest to a graduate, post-graduate or early career researcher in the fields of equality and human rights but is open to any individual with the skills we are seeking.

EDF greatly values its interns’ and volunteers’ contribution and is committed to providing a stimulating work experience and flexible working conditions.

Person specification

  • An interest in and commitment to equality and human rights
  • Some familiarity with equality and human rights policy, legislation and research
  • Strong IT skills, including familiarity with Microsoft office applications
  • Good working knowledge of databases
  • Experience of updating and maintaining websites – or willingness to learn
  • Self motivated and able to work on own initiative without close supervision
  • Good administrative and organisational skills
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • Some experience of helping to organise and run events

Location and hours

The post is based at EDF in the offices of Age UK at 1-6 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9NA, although home working would be an option. The office is easy to reach by public transport (bus, train and underground).

We are looking to recruit someone to work 2 days regularly per week for a minimum six-month period. The actual days and hours are negotiable. This is an unpaid position with agreed travel and lunch expenses reimbursed.

The post-holder will be managed by Moira Dustin, EDF Director of Communications and Research, and Coordinator of the EDF Research Network.

How to apply

Please email your CV with contact details of two referees and a covering letter giving your reasons for applying and your availability to . Please also complete and return the accompanying equality monitoring form (which includes details of the guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants). The deadline for applications is 5pm on Wednesday 22 May 2013 with interviews taking place on Wednesday 29 May at the EDF offices in central London. If you have any questions about the position, please email Moira Dustin at .

EDF Research Network, c/o Equality and Diversity Forum, Tavis House, 1-6 Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9NA,Tel + 44 (0)20 303 31454, , website

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