| Host Details | |
| Name of Host Organisation: | Makinen Unlimited Ltd. |
| Host location: | Remote |
| Brief description of the Host Organisation: | We help businesses understand the future workforce by bridging the gap between the Gen Z and the more experienced workforce. We raise awareness of generational dynamics and help leaders and managers shift their mindset. Website: https://makinenunlimited.com/ |
| Equal opportunities statement: | We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We welcome applications from researchers at all stages of their doctoral journey and from any background. All applications will be assessed solely on the basis of merit and suitability for the role. |
| Host contact details: | Any queries about this opportunity should be addressed to the Host Organisation: Katriina Makinen (Founder)katriina@makinenunlimited.com |
| Project Description | |
| Placement role title: | Research Assistant |
| Background/ expected impact of the project: | For the first time in history, workplaces now contain five generations working alongside one another. Each generation has been shaped by different social, economic, and technological conditions, and brings different expectations, communication styles, and ways of working; in particular the Gen Z, who are the first digital native generation with different assumptions related to work, success, communication and authority. Understanding this complexity and working with it is a present and growing challenge for organisations across all sectors. Makinen Unlimited works with organisations to close this gap, specialising in raising awareness of Gen Z, generational dynamics and shifting the mindset of leaders and managers. Our services include leadership training, establishment of a Mentoring Framework, facilitated workshops, group mentoring for Gen Z, coaching for leaders and managers and HR advisory support. We are looking to develop a new diagnostic framework that organisations can use to assess how well their multigenerational workforce is functioning and identify where the gaps lie. The tool will allow organisations to determine how efficient their workforce is. |
| Outline of duties: | The Research Assistant will work closely with us and the placement is collaborative: the researcher brings academic rigour and research expertise; we bring practical knowledge and commercial context. The two shape the framework together. Conducting a structured literature review of existing academic and practitioner research on generational theory, multigenerational workplaces, Gen Z, leadership, and organisational development.Identifying the key dimensions that determine whether a multigenerational workforce is functioning effectively. Early thinking points to areas such as awareness, environment, learning and development, engagement and retention, but these will be interrogated and refined through the research. Input from the Research Assistant is welcomed. Evaluate the proposed framework dimensions against the evidence base and our expertise.Contributing to the design and structure of the diagnostic framework itself, including the questions or indicators organisations would use to self-assess.Supporting the production of the practical guide, including reviewing draft content for accuracy and alignment with the research (time permitted). Attending regular check-ins with us to share findings, test assumptions, and refine direction. |
| Expected output(s)/ deliverable(s): | A diagnostic framework for multigenerational organisations.Practical guide built around the framework. |
| Support for Postgraduate Researcher: | Regular one-to-one check-ins throughout the placementMentoring and support on progressRegular feedback on the workSupport in contacting potential research partnersSupport with developing the framework The placement is fully remote and flexible in structure, allowing the student to work in a way that fits alongside their commitments. Clear milestones will be agreed at the outset to ensure progress and provide a structure for the three months. |
| Skills and experience required for the role: | Applications are particularly encouraged from doctoral researchers in organisational behaviour, psychology, human resource management, sociology, business or related fields. Applicants from other disciplines are welcome to apply if they can demonstrate relevance to the subject matter. The following skills and experience are relevant to this role: Experience conducting literature reviews and synthesising academic research. An interest in generational dynamics, workplace culture, leadership, or organisational development. Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote setting. Strong written communication skills and an ability to translate research for a non-academic audience. A collaborative approach and willingness to engage in a co-design process.Experience using online meeting software. |
| Key Information | |
| Placement ideal start date: | August, 2026 |
| Placement duration: | 3 months full time or 6 months part time |
| Full-time or part-time: e.g. 37.5 hours per week or usually 18-19 hours per week | We are open to discuss what works best for you |
| In-person, online or hybrid: | Online |
| Security/ health and safety restrictions (if relevant): | None |
| Anticipated costs and financial support the Host can offer to help cover these (if relevant): | This placement is offered on an unpaid basis. The host organisation will not cover your PhD funding during the placement. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that their programme funding will continue during the placement. As this is mainly a remote role, we do not anticipate any costs to arise. We expect the placement student to have their own laptop and work set-up, either at home or at their university. |
| How to Apply | |
| Applicant eligibility: | This opportunity is only accepting applications from Postgraduate Researchers with secured funding and authorisation from their doctoral funding body to undertake a three-month placement. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that the placement meets the criteria specified by their programme and university and that they secure the necessary permissions from their university before commencing the placement. |
| Closing date and time for applications: | Friday 29th May 2026, 23:59 UK time |
| Application format: e.g. CV, cover letter, application form, etc | Applicants should submit a free written letter (no longer than two sides of A4) addressing the following: 1. Why you are interested in this particular project and what draws you to the question of generational difference in the workplace. 2. What you hope to gain from this placement and how it connects to your own research or professional development. 3. How you approach translating academic research into something practically useful for a non-academic audience. 4. Why you believe you are well placed to contribute to this work, with reference to any relevant experience or skills. Please do not submit a CV. We are more interested in your thinking than your academic record. |
| Recruitment process: | The Host Organisation is responsible for processing the applications received for this opportunity and applications will be processed as follows: Applications will be reviewed by Katriina Makinen, Founder of Makinen Unlimited. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an informal online conversation to discuss the project and their suitability for the role. Applicants will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible after the closing date. |