UX Consultant and Lab Supervisor (The Interaction Lab) (INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Consultant and Lab Supervisor (The Interaction Lab)

Company: City St George's, University of London

Location: London, United Kingdom

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: User Experience (UX) / Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Research & Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

Experience Level: Mid-Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and promote a specialist HCI research facility, "The Interaction Lab," driving its visibility and client engagement for both academic and commercial projects.

• Conduct and manage user experience (UX) research, user testing, and accessibility testing across diverse platforms and industries, ensuring high-quality deliverables.

• Oversee the operational aspects of the lab, including facility maintenance, technology troubleshooting, and ensuring a safe and productive research environment.

• Coordinate and mentor student consultants, fostering their development while leveraging their contributions to consultancy projects.

• Serve as a primary point of contact for internal and external clients, managing inquiries, project scoping, and client relationship management from initiation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is explicitly for internal applicants only, meaning candidates must currently be employed by City St George's, University of London. The hybrid nature suggests a balance between on-site lab management and remote client engagement or administrative tasks. The "5-10 years" experience level estimation is based on the need for both practitioner expertise and supervisory capabilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategies to promote The Interaction Lab's services, both online and through in-person engagement, including organizing networking events and conferences.

• Serve as the primary consultant for internal academic researchers and external commercial clients, managing the full lifecycle of user experience consultancy projects, from initial scoping and design to evaluation and reporting.

• Plan, schedule, and conduct user testing, usability studies, and accessibility audits, employing a range of methodologies tailored to project requirements and client objectives.

• Maintain and troubleshoot all lab facilities and equipment, ensuring optimal functionality and safety for all users, and provide technical support to researchers and consultants utilizing the lab.

• Coordinate, mentor, and manage a team of student consultants, assigning tasks, overseeing their work, and ensuring the quality and timely delivery of their contributions to consultancy projects.

• Respond promptly and professionally to all client inquiries, providing detailed project proposals, cost estimations, and timelines.

• Collaborate closely with the Centre for Human-Computer Interaction Design (HCID) academics to support their research activities and integrate lab findings into academic discourse.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of lab processes, methodologies, and service offerings based on client feedback, industry trends, and internal performance analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of client-facing consultancy, operational lab management, and team leadership. The need to promote the lab and run networking events suggests a proactive, business development-oriented approach within an academic setting. Coordinating student consultants implies a mentorship and project management component.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), User Experience Design, Psychology, Computer Science, Information Science, or a related field.

• A strong understanding of UX research methodologies, usability principles, and accessibility standards. Experience:

• A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in user experience research, design, and consultancy.

• Proven experience in managing and conducting user testing, usability studies, and accessibility audits across various platforms (web, mobile, software, hardware).

• Demonstrated experience in client management, project scoping, and delivering consultancy services to both academic and commercial clients. Required Skills:

• User Experience (UX) Research & Design: Expertise in qualitative and quantitative UX research methods, including user interviews, surveys, usability testing, heuristic evaluations, and persona development.

• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI): Deep understanding of HCI principles, interaction design, and cognitive psychology as applied to user interface design.

• Lab Operations & Technology Management: Proficiency in maintaining, troubleshooting, and managing specialized research lab equipment and technology, including A/V systems, eye-tracking devices, and usability testing software.

• Consultancy & Client Management: Proven ability to manage client relationships, define project scope, develop proposals, and deliver impactful UX consultancy services.

• Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, from initiation to completion, within defined timelines and budgets.

• Communication & Presentation: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex findings and recommendations clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.

• Networking & Business Development: Experience in promoting services, building relationships, and identifying new business opportunities within academic and commercial sectors.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in organizing and running academic or industry conferences and networking events.

• Familiarity with emerging technologies and their UX implications (e.g., AI, VR/AR, IoT).

• Experience in coordinating and mentoring junior staff or student teams.

• Knowledge of accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) and experience conducting accessibility audits.

• Familiarity with the academic research environment and grant application processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-10 years" estimation for experience level is based on the dual requirements of being a practitioner and a supervisor/consultant. The emphasis on both academic and commercial client experience, coupled with lab management and promotion, suggests a need for a well-rounded UX professional. The "INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY" clause is a critical filter.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a strong track record in UX research and consultancy.

• Case studies showcasing the end-to-end process of user experience projects, from problem definition and research design to execution, analysis, and impact.

• Examples of user testing protocols, usability reports, and accessibility audit findings, clearly articulating methodologies and actionable recommendations.

• Evidence of client management, project scope definition, and successful delivery of consultancy services, highlighting client satisfaction and achieved outcomes.

• Documentation of process improvements or innovations implemented within previous lab or project settings. Process Documentation:

• Detailed descriptions of UX research methodologies employed, including rationale for selection and adaptation for specific project contexts.

• Workflow diagrams illustrating the typical lifecycle of a consultancy project within a lab environment, from initial client engagement to final deliverable.

• Examples of how user feedback and research findings were translated into actionable design recommendations or strategic insights.

• Documentation of lab facility management processes, including equipment maintenance schedules, safety protocols, and user onboarding procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role involving consultancy and lab supervision, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase design work but also the process of research, client interaction, and problem-solving. The emphasis on "process" implies a need to demonstrate how the candidate structures their work and manages projects effectively, especially when coordinating others.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the provided data, the estimated salary range for this role is £43,482 - £44,746 GBP per annum. This is a narrow range, suggesting a specific pay grade for this position.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: This salary estimate is derived from the AI-generated ai_salary_minvalue and ai_salary_maxvalue. For a UX Consultant and Lab Supervisor role in London with 5-10 years of experience, this range appears to be on the lower end for the London market, which is typical for academic institutions compared to private sector tech companies. However, it is a sector-leading offering within the university's context.

Benefits:

• Pension Scheme: Access to a competitive pension plan, providing long-term financial security.

• Staff Training and Development: Comprehensive package of training and development opportunities, supporting continuous professional growth and skill enhancement in UX, HCI, and management.

• Generous Annual Leave: (Assumed standard for UK higher education) Typically includes a significant number of annual leave days, plus bank holidays and university closure days.

• Health and Wellbeing Support: Access to employee assistance programs and wellbeing initiatives.

• Flexible Working: (As indicated by Hybrid status) Potential for flexible working arrangements, balancing on-site responsibilities with remote work.

Working Hours:

• 40 hours per week is the standard full-time equivalent. As this role is part-time, the actual hours will be pro-rated.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: The ai_working_hours field indicating 40 hours suggests this is the full-time equivalent, and the part-time nature means the actual hours worked will be less. The "Hybrid" work arrangement implies a flexible schedule that will need to be coordinated with lab operational needs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (Specializing in Health, Business, Policy, Law, Creativity, Communications, Science, and Technology)

Company Size: Large (Likely over 1,000 employees, given it's a university formed from two institutions)

Founded: St George's, University of London was founded in 1784; City, University of London has a history dating back to 1834. The combined institution is more recent.

Team Structure:

• The Interaction Lab operates within the Centre for Human-Computer Interaction Design (HCID) at City St George's.

• The Lab team likely consists of the UX Consultant/Supervisor, potentially other research staff, and a cohort of student consultants.

• The role reports into a senior academic or department head within the HCID Centre.

• Close collaboration is expected with academic staff, researchers, and potentially other university departments and external commercial clients. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Research: Emphasizes rigorous HCI and UX research methodologies to generate actionable insights.

• Collaborative Innovation: Fosters a collaborative environment for academic discovery and commercial application of research.

• Client-Centric Consultancy: Focuses on understanding and meeting the specific needs of both internal academic projects and external commercial clients.

• Continuous Improvement: Encourages ongoing refinement of lab processes, research techniques, and service offerings.

Company Website: https://www.city.ac.uk/ (and https://www.sgul.ac.uk/) - The primary website for the combined institution is likely https://www.cityandstgeorges.ac.uk/ or a similar unified portal.

📝 Enhancement Note: The dual heritage of City and St George's provides a broad disciplinary scope. The company culture is likely academic, research-intensive, and focused on practical application and societal impact. The "INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY" clause significantly shapes the immediate context, implying this role is for an existing employee to transition into.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role sits at a mid-to-senior level within the UX/HCI field, combining hands-on practitioner skills with supervisory and client management responsibilities. It's a specialized role bridging academic research and commercial consultancy.

Reporting Structure: The UX Consultant and Lab Supervisor will likely report to a Head of Centre or a Senior Lecturer/Professor within the Centre for Human-Computer Interaction Design (HCID). They will also supervise student consultants.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is multifaceted:

• Academic Research: Directly supports and enhances the quality and output of HCI research conducted within the university.

• Commercial Value: Generates revenue and builds the university's reputation through successful consultancy projects for external clients.

• Student Development: Contributes to the practical training and career readiness of students in UX and HCI fields.

• Lab Efficiency: Ensures the operational effectiveness and accessibility of a key research facility.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of UX/HCI research, such as accessibility, emerging technologies, or specific industry verticals.

• Leadership: Progress to more senior management roles within the HCID Centre or other research facilities, potentially overseeing multiple labs or research initiatives.

• Academic Engagement: Develop closer ties with academic staff, potentially leading to co-authorship on research papers or involvement in grant applications.

• Consultancy Expansion: Grow the client base and project portfolio of The Interaction Lab, increasing its impact and revenue generation.

• Teaching & Mentorship: Further develop mentorship skills and potentially contribute to teaching modules within the HCI program.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path here is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about deepening expertise, expanding influence within an academic institution, and potentially moving into higher-level research management or specialized consultancy. The internal-only nature means growth is likely within the existing university structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. This role requires a significant presence at "The Interaction Lab" facility for its operational and supervisory duties. However, it also allows for remote work for administrative tasks, client communication, or project planning.

Office Location(s): The Interaction Lab is located at St John Street, London, EC1V 0HB. This central London location offers good accessibility via public transport.

Workspace Context:

• Lab Environment: A purpose-built 75m2 facility equipped for user testing, accessibility testing, and design workshops. This includes potentially specialized hardware and software for HCI research.

• Collaborative Hub: The lab serves as a hub for academics, student consultants, and external clients, fostering a dynamic and interactive work environment.

• Technology Access: Access to a range of UX research tools, testing equipment, and potentially university IT infrastructure.

• Academic Setting: Integration into a university environment, with opportunities for interaction with researchers and students from diverse disciplines.

Work Schedule: The role is part-time, with a standard full-time equivalent of 40 hours per week. The specific schedule will need to be coordinated to ensure lab coverage, client project needs, and to accommodate the hybrid working model. Flexibility will likely be expected, especially concerning client project timelines and lab availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature, combined with the need to supervise a physical lab, suggests a structured but potentially flexible schedule. The lab itself is a key part of the workspace, requiring hands-on management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening (Internal): Applications will be reviewed against the "INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY" criterion.

• Application Review: Resumes and cover letters will be assessed for relevant UX/HCI experience, consultancy background, and supervisory potential.

• Presentation & Interview: Candidates will likely be asked to prepare and deliver a presentation on a relevant UX project or their vision for The Interaction Lab. This will be followed by an interview with a panel, likely including academic staff from HCID and potentially external client representatives.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions related to managing lab operations, handling client challenges, mentoring students, and promoting services.

• Technical/Methodology Assessment: Discussions may delve into specific UX research techniques, troubleshooting scenarios, and project management approaches.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate the methodology, research design, and analytical steps taken in each project. Use diagrams and flowcharts where appropriate.

• Highlight Impact: Quantify results whenever possible. For consultancy projects, focus on the business value delivered to the client (e.g., improved conversion rates, reduced errors, enhanced user satisfaction). For academic support, highlight how your work advanced research objectives.

• Demonstrate Versatility: Include examples across different platforms (web, mobile, software, physical products) and industries to showcase adaptability.

• Detail Lab Management: If possible, include examples of how you've managed lab resources, maintained equipment, or improved operational efficiency in previous roles.

• Client Communication: Include examples of client communication, proposal structures, or feedback received, demonstrating professionalism and relationship management skills.

Challenge Preparation:

• Vision for the Lab: Be prepared to articulate your vision for The Interaction Lab's future, including strategies for growth, client acquisition, and service enhancement.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about common challenges in UX consultancy (e.g., difficult clients, tight deadlines, unexpected research findings) and how you would address them.

• Mentorship Approach: Prepare to discuss your philosophy and methods for mentoring and managing junior team members or students.

• Promotional Strategies: Consider innovative ways to market the lab's services to both internal and external stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the academic and consultancy nature of the role, the interview process will likely assess not only technical UX skills but also strategic thinking, client management capabilities, and the ability to operate effectively within a university structure. The presentation component is a key opportunity to demonstrate practical application and strategic vision.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• UX Research Software: Tools for survey creation (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics), user interview platforms (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams), and potentially specialized qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, Dovetail).

• Usability Testing Platforms: Software for remote and in-person usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback, Morae).

• Prototyping & Wireframing Tools: (Potentially used by clients or for internal conceptualization) Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD.

• Accessibility Testing Tools: Screen readers (e.g., JAWS, NVDA), color contrast checkers, and automated accessibility scanners.

• Lab Equipment: Eye-tracking devices, biometric sensors, specialized cameras, audio recording equipment, and potentially VR/AR hardware depending on current lab capabilities.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Software: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, potentially R or Python for more advanced statistical analysis.

• Reporting Tools: Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, or specific UX reporting platforms for compiling and presenting findings.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal University Systems: Familiarity with university administrative systems for project management, finance, and HR.

• Client Relationship Management (CRM): While not explicitly stated, a basic CRM or project tracking system might be used for managing external client inquiries and projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools will depend on the lab's existing infrastructure, but the emphasis is on a broad range of UX research and testing tools, alongside general productivity and project management software. The ability to troubleshoot and maintain this technology is a key requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Research: Commitment to rigorous, evidence-based UX and HCI research practices.

• Innovation & Curiosity: Encouraging exploration of new technologies and methodologies to push the boundaries of human-computer interaction.

• Collaboration & Support: Fostering a supportive environment for academic research, student development, and client partnerships.

• Impact & Application: Driving research that has tangible benefits for both academic understanding and practical, real-world applications.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Maintaining high ethical standards in research and client interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with academics, researchers, students, and potentially other university departments to support diverse projects.

• Client Partnership: Developing strong, collaborative relationships with external clients to ensure project success and foster repeat business.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in and contributing to the academic discourse within HCID and the broader UX community.

• Mentorship Culture: A willingness to guide and develop student consultants, fostering their professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely a blend of academic rigor, entrepreneurial client engagement, and a strong emphasis on learning and development. The internal-only nature suggests a candidate already familiar with, or keen to integrate into, the university's specific operational and cultural norms.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Academic and Commercial Demands: Effectively managing the differing priorities, timelines, and expectations of academic research projects versus commercial consultancy.

• Resource Management: Optimizing the use of lab facilities, equipment, and student consultant time to maximize efficiency and impact.

• Client Acquisition & Retention: Proactively promoting the lab's services and securing a consistent pipeline of high-quality consultancy projects.

• Evolving Technology Landscape: Staying abreast of rapid advancements in technology and UX methodologies to ensure the lab remains at the forefront of research capabilities.

• Internal Application Transition: Successfully transitioning into a new role within the same institution, demonstrating new skills and adapting to a potentially different scope of responsibility.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced UX/HCI Training: Access to workshops, conferences, and online courses to deepen expertise in specialized areas.

• Project Management Certification: Opportunities to pursue formal project management qualifications.

• Business Development Skills: Training in sales, marketing, and client acquisition relevant to consultancy services.

• Leadership Development: Programs focused on mentoring, team management, and strategic planning within an academic context.

• Networking: Building connections within both the academic community and the commercial sector through lab activities and university events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dual nature of the role and the need for adaptability. The growth opportunities focus on enhancing both technical and managerial skills within the university framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach promoting The Interaction Lab to a new commercial client who has never engaged with a university research facility before?" (Assesses business development, communication, and understanding of value proposition).

• "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting priorities between an academic research project and a commercial consultancy. How did you resolve it?" (Assesses prioritization, problem-solving, and stakeholder management).

• "What are your key strategies for ensuring the quality and consistency of work produced by student consultants?" (Assesses mentorship, quality control, and team management).

• "Imagine a client is unhappy with the initial research findings. How would you handle this situation to maintain the relationship and ensure project success?" (Assesses client management, conflict resolution, and data interpretation). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about working within an academic research lab environment compared to a purely commercial UX agency?" (Assesses cultural fit and understanding of the academic context).

• "How do you see The Interaction Lab contributing to City St George's overall mission and strategic goals?" (Assesses strategic thinking and alignment with institutional objectives).

• "Describe your experience working within a hybrid or flexible work environment. How do you ensure productivity and collaboration?" (Assesses adaptability and work ethic). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly outline the problem, your approach/methodology, the solutions/recommendations, and the outcomes/impact. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success of your projects (e.g., "improved task completion rate by 25%", "reduced user errors by 15%").

• Showcase Process: Don't just show the final product; explain how you got there. Detail your research methods, design iterations, and decision-making processes.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that involved lab management, client consultancy, or mentoring, as these are core to the job description.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your choices, challenges faced, and alternative approaches you considered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical UX expertise, strong client management skills, leadership potential, and an understanding of the academic environment. The portfolio presentation is a critical component for showcasing practical experience and strategic thinking.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link. Ensure you meet the "INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY" requirement.

• Tailor your CV and cover letter: Highlight specific achievements and experiences relevant to UX research, lab supervision, client consultancy, and project management, using keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest UX projects that demonstrate your process, impact, and versatility. Ensure it is easily accessible (e.g., via a personal website or shared document).

• Rehearse your presentation: Practice delivering a compelling presentation on a relevant UX project or your vision for The Interaction Lab, focusing on clarity, impact, and strategic thinking.

• Research: Familiarize yourself with City St George's, University of London, its mission, and the Centre for Human-Computer Interaction Design (HCID) to articulate your understanding and fit during the interview.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions. Given the "INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY" status, ensure you are eligible before applying.