Research Assistant (0.5 FTE) - Commission on Interfaith Relations (Fixed term)
Research Assistant (0.5 FTE) – Commission on Interfaith Relations
Salary: £24,000 pro rata (approx. £12,000 at 0.5 FTE)
Location: Cambridge with UK travel
Contract: Part-time (0.5 FTE of 37.5 hours pcw), fixed-term (18 months), Jan 2026 – June 2027
Application deadline: 16 December 2025
Apply to: enquiries@woolf.cam.ac.uk
About the Woolf Institute
The Woolf Institute is a Cambridge-based research and policy institute dedicated to improving relations between religion and society through scholarship, public engagement, and impactful policy work. We combine academic excellence with practical application, working with partners across government, civil society, education, and faith communities. Our projects inform national debates, strengthen social cohesion, and help communities navigate complex global and domestic challenges.
The Institute is now expanding its policy capacity, and this role forms an important part of that development.
About the Commission
The Commission on Interfaith Relations: UK Faith Groups and Global Conflicts is a major national initiative convened by the Woolf Institute and led by Dr Ed Kessler MBE. Running from January 2026 to summer 2027, the Commission will investigate how global conflicts — including in the Middle East, South Asia, Eastern Europe, Africa and beyond — shape interfaith and intrafaith relations within the UK.
The Commission will hold six public participation sessions across the UK in 2026, gathering evidence from the general public, affected communities, and sector experts. These will be followed by six deliberative Commissioner meetings in Cambridge, culminating in:
- A national report
- Policy recommendations for government
- A practical playbook/toolkit for civil society and local authorities
This role supports the Secretariat in delivering this ambitious and high-profile programme. The role-holder will report to Dr Mohammed Ahmed, Head of the Secretariat for the Commission, and will work closely with Dr Ed Kessler MBE.
Job Title: Research Assistant (Commission Secretariat)
Role Purpose
The Research Assistant will play a central supporting role in the delivery of the Commission’s public participation, research, and policy outputs. The postholder will help design and run events across the UK, facilitate discussions, capture and synthesise evidence, support logistical and administrative planning, and contribute to the drafting of reports and briefings.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career who is passionate about deliberative democracy, public participation, interfaith engagement, and ensuring that the voices of the public inform impactful policy work.
How to Apply
Please email the following to enquiries@woolf.cam.ac.uk by 16 December:
- Your CV
- A short cover letter (max 1 page) explaining your interest and suitability
- The names and contact details of two referees