Making Research Matter: Towards Evidence-Informed Science Education Practice in the UK (Ref:251210, RIP-RAP-25-04)

Project Title:

Making Research Matter: Towards Evidence-Informed Science Education Practice in the UK

Project Supervisor:

Dr Wonyong Park, w.park@soton.ac.uk.

Institution:

Mathematics & Science Education Research Centre, Southampton Education School, University of Southampton

Placement Period:

Placement to start between January and May 2026; available full-time for 3 months or part-time for 6 months. Some in person meetings, otherwise can be remote.

How to Apply:

Send a CV and covering email to Dr Wonyong Park  copied to scdtp@soton.ac.uk outlining their interest in the position and highlighting relevant expertise and experience.

Deadline to Apply:

10th December 2025

Placement Details:

Project description

This project aims to strengthen evidence-informed practice in UK science education by supporting teachers to engage more effectively with research. Working in partnership with King’s College London and the Association for Science Education (ASE), the project will co-develop a practical toolkit and CPD resources designed to help science teachers access, interpret, and apply research evidence in their classrooms. Activities include a national survey of science educators, semi-structured interviews, co-design of resources with practitioners, and dissemination through workshops, conferences, and ASE’s practitioner networks. The project addresses gaps between research production and classroom practice, while fostering long-term collaboration across the research–practice boundary.

RAP work to be undertaken

1. Collecting and analysing qualitative and quantitative data from CPD workshops and practitioner feedback.
2. Supporting synthesis of findings for the project’s internal evaluation and external outputs.
3. Contributing to the drafting of practitioner- and policy-facing reports, with scope for co-authorship on presentations and publications arising from the project.
4. Liaising with project partners to collate data and integrate multiple perspectives into the analysis.

Anticipated benefits for the student

• First-hand exposure to the research-practice interface in the social sciences, supported by experienced mentors and a group of active researchers.
• Development of advanced academic skills in data analysis, synthesis, and research communication.
• Experience of working with a multi-university team (Southampton and King’s College London) and a national professional body (ASE).
• Opportunity to contribute to publications, with the potential for co-authorship.
• Strengthened research profile and networks in education, policy, and practitioner communities.

Anticipated benefits for host

• Enhanced analytical capacity to ensure effective evaluation of CPD activities and toolkit use.
• Research input and fresh insights from the student that will strengthen academic outputs and dissemination.
• Additional support in meeting deadlines for reporting and publications
• Contribution to doctoral researcher development and capacity building in evidence-informed education research.

Required skills, knowledge and experience

• Background in social science, education, or a related field, with interest in evidence-informed practice
• Experience with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods
• Strong analytical and writing skills, with attention to detail in synthesising findings
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with academic and practitioner partners.

Funds provided by the host

Any travel expenses required for the project will be covered.

Supervised by Dr Wonyong Park at Mathematics & Science Education Research Centre, Southampton Education School, University of Southampton. Contact w.park@soton.ac.uk

(Ref:251210, RIP-RAP-25-04)

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