At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our research team to explore innovative studies on mesothelioma and improve patient outcomes.
- Company: The University of Sheffield, a world-class institution committed to diversity and excellence.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, flexible working, discounts, and a strong focus on your development.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for personal growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in health research while building your academic career.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in health research; experience with mixed methods research required.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 38784 £ per year.
The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.
We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more.
Overview
The successful postholder will join the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre in the School of Allied Health Professionals, Pharmacy, Nursing & Midwifery. A Research Associate is required to provide parental leave cover for a period of 8 months. The successful candidate will work on a number of studies related to mesothelioma, including qualitative research exploring experiences of immunotherapy, a mixed methods study exploring factors influencing treatment access and a systematic review on Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMS). The postholder will also have the opportunity to develop ideas for future studies, in collaboration with colleagues.
The Mesothelioma UK Research Centre is funded by Mesothelioma UK (a charity for mesothelioma patients and families) to undertake research and develop resources to optimize well-being for those living with mesothelioma. The post provides an ideal postdoctoral opportunity to establish an academic career in the field of health research, nursing or cancer research. The post provides the ideal platform for progression to an academic post or would suit those seeking to establish a long-term research career.
The postholder will have a PhD (or be nearing completion) or equivalent experience. They will need experience that would enable them to conduct mixed methods research, including with mesothelioma patients and/or their family members. They will have a recognised expertise in health research and the ability to be self-directed in conducting projects they are responsible for. They will need to demonstrate ability to deliver research outputs, including peer-review publications and conference presentations.
Main duties and responsibilities
- Develop and maintain a strong working relationship with Mesothelioma UK and non-academic stakeholders as appropriate.
- Develop protocols for ethical review and submit to the University of Sheffield Research Ethics Committee or NHS Research Ethics Committees.
- Plan and undertake reviews of the literature, using recognised methods.
- Design and develop data collection materials including surveys and qualitative interview guides.
- Analyse qualitative and quantitative data, including secondary analysis.
- Write publications for peer review journals.
- Disseminate research using methods such as conference presentations, presentations at clinical and stakeholder events, press releases, social media.
- Read academic papers, journals, books and professional literature and attend conferences to keep abreast of developments in the area.
- Conduct Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) activities, supported by senior staff.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Criteria
- A PhD (or near completion) or equivalent experience related to health research, nursing or cancer research.
- Experience working with patients with cancer, advanced/life limiting illness, or otherwise vulnerable individuals.
- Experience of conducting literature reviews using recognised methods.
- Experience of conducting mixed methods research in a health context.
- Experience using statistical software packages e.g. SPSS.
- Experience of conducting qualitative data analysis using CAQDAS (such as NVIVO, Quirkos).
- Experience of Patient and Public Involvement & Engagement (PPIE) in research.
- Proven track record of research activity and outputs in a health related field. These may include publications in high quality peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations.
- Evidence of contribution to research impact in policy, practice, public engagement or education.
- Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations.
Further Information
Grade: 7
Work arrangement: 60% FTE
Duration: 22/6/26 - 12/3/27
Line manager: Prof Clare Gardiner, Director Mesothelioma UK Research Centre
For informal enquiries about this job contact Clare Gardiner, Director Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, c.gardiner@sheffield.ac.uk.
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on Monday 15th June 2026. This will consist of an interview and presentation (face to face or on-line). We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 1st June 2026. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact Caroline Potts on c.e.potts@sheffield.ac.uk.
A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more. Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles. A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel. A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks). Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role. A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways. A range of generous family-friendly policies paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies support for those going through the menopause paid time off and support for fertility treatment and more.
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.
Research Associate in Sheffield employer: Dunhillmedical
Contact Detail:
Dunhillmedical Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Sheffield
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in your field! Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meetups. Building relationships can lead to opportunities that aren’t advertised, so don’t be shy about reaching out.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Share specific examples of your work, especially those that align with the research areas mentioned in the job description.
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before the interview! Research the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre and understand their projects. Prepare questions that show your interest and knowledge about their work, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at the University of Sheffield.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Research Skills: Since this is a research-focused position, be sure to emphasise your experience with mixed methods research and any relevant publications. We want to see your expertise shine through!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences. A well-structured application can make a big difference!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dunhillmedical
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of your past research, especially any work related to mesothelioma or cancer. Be ready to discuss your methodologies, findings, and how they relate to the role. This shows your passion and expertise.
✨Prepare for Mixed Methods Questions
Since the role involves mixed methods research, brush up on your qualitative and quantitative analysis skills. Be prepared to explain how you’ve used these methods in previous projects and how you would apply them in this new position.
✨Engage with Patient Perspectives
Demonstrate your understanding of Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) by sharing examples of how you've engaged with patients in your research. Highlight any experiences that showcase your ability to communicate effectively with vulnerable individuals.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Research Associate, you'll need to write publications and present findings. Prepare to discuss your experience with report writing and presentations. Bring along examples of your work if possible, as this will help illustrate your capabilities.