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- Tasks: Join a team to support research on preconception care and mental health.
- Company: King's College London is a leading institution in mental health research and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that transforms care for individuals planning for pregnancy.
- Qualifications: Undergraduate or PhD in a related field; experience in research and mental health preferred.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; apply with your CV and a statement addressing the criteria.
The predicted salary is between 38482 - 47282 £ per year.
Research Assistant or Research Associate in the Realist Evaluation of Preconception Care
Join to apply for the Research Assistant or Research Associate in the Realist Evaluation of Preconception Care role at King\’s College London .
The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) is a world-leading research centre dedicated to understanding, preventing, and treating mental illnesses and neurological conditions. The IoPPN aims to transform care through research, education, and training, serving both local and global communities. It maintains a long-standing partnership with the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM), facilitating rapid translation of research into clinical practice.
This role is based in the Department of Psychological Medicine, which has a strong track record in postgraduate training and research support.
About The Role
We seek a Research Assistant or Research Associate to contribute to the NIHR-funded NEST study, which investigates how to support individuals of reproductive age in contact with mental health services to improve pregnancy planning and readiness.
The successful candidate will join an established team, contributing to all research aspects, including data collection, analysis, and publication. The position is full-time on a 12-month fixed-term contract, with part-time options considered.
About You
We are looking for candidates with the following skills and experience:
Research Assistant – Essential Criteria
- Undergraduate qualification (e.g., BSc, BA) in a related field with at least a 2:1 classification
- Experience recruiting participants and conducting qualitative interviews on sensitive topics
- Experience evaluating complex interventions and conducting realist evaluations
- Experience in qualitative data analysis
- Ability to deliver research activities to milestones
Research Assistant – Desirable Criteria
- Experience working in mental health settings and assessing mental health conditions
- Knowledge of preconception health literature and policy
- Experience with healthcare data analysis, including quantitative methods
- Ability to interpret and write research findings for academic and policy audiences
Research Associate – Essential Criteria
- PhD in relevant area (or pending)
- Understanding of UK mental health services
- Experience recruiting participants and qualitative interviews
- Experience evaluating complex interventions and realist evaluations
- Qualitative data analysis skills
- Ability to meet research milestones
- Excellent communication skills and stakeholder engagement experience
Research Associate – Desirable Criteria
- Experience working in mental health settings
- Knowledge of preconception health and policy
- Experience with healthcare data and quantitative analysis
- Experience writing for academic and policy audiences
If applying for the Grade 6 Research Associate position, note that candidates awaiting PhD results may be considered at Grade 5, with the title of Research Assistant, until the PhD is awarded. Upon confirmation, the role will be upgraded to Research Associate.
Additional Information
Full details are available in the Job Description document accessible after clicking \”Apply Now.\” We value diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds. Please submit your CV and a supporting statement addressing the essential criteria. Indicate which role you are applying for in your statement.
This position is subject to Disclosure and Barring Service and Occupational Health clearances.
Salary
Grade 5 (Research Assistant): £38,482 – £43,249 per annum
Grade 6 (Research Associate): £44,355 – £47,882 per annum
Closing Date
19-Aug-2025
Contact
Dr. Claire Wilson
Email:
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Research Assistant or Research Associate in the Realist Evaluation of Preconception Care employer: King's College London
Contact Detail:
King's College London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant or Research Associate in the Realist Evaluation of Preconception Care
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the NEST study and its objectives. Understanding the specific goals of the research will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with the project during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of mental health and preconception care. Attend relevant conferences or seminars, and connect with researchers at King's College London to gain insights and potentially get a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with qualitative data analysis in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've conducted interviews and evaluated interventions, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current literature regarding preconception health and mental health services in the UK. This knowledge will not only enhance your application but also demonstrate your commitment to the field during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant or Research Associate in the Realist Evaluation of Preconception Care
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the specific requirements for the Research Assistant or Research Associate position. Pay attention to the essential and desirable criteria, as well as the responsibilities involved in the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. Emphasise your qualifications, research experience, and any work related to mental health or preconception care.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Write a compelling supporting statement that directly addresses the essential criteria listed in the job description. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you meet these criteria.
Indicate Your Preferred Role: Clearly state which position you are applying for (Research Assistant or Research Associate) in your supporting statement. This helps the hiring team understand your intentions and qualifications better.
How to prepare for a job interview at King's College London
✨Know Your Research
Familiarise yourself with the NEST study and its objectives. Understanding the nuances of preconception care and how it relates to mental health will show your genuine interest and preparedness for the role.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be ready to discuss your experience in recruiting participants and conducting qualitative interviews, especially on sensitive topics. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in evaluating complex interventions.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be prepared to explain how you would engage with stakeholders and present research findings to both academic and policy audiences.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready about the team, the research environment, and future projects. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the role aligns with your career goals.
