At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team researching child neurodevelopment and contribute to impactful studies.
- Company: University of Liverpool, a leader in innovative child health research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equality and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in child development and mental health on an international scale.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in relevant fields; experience with child assessments is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 46049 - 46049 £ per year.
Hours of work: Part-time – 0.7FTE
Tenure: Fixed term until October 2028
We are seeking an enthusiastic postdoctoral researcher to join our child neurodevelopment research programme at the University of Liverpool. The post will primarily support Children Growing Up in Liverpool (C-GULL) and Healthy Brains, Healthy Futures (HBHF), the Liverpool arm of the Wellcome-funded ANXIOMICS programme, alongside a 0.25 FTE role supporting the international FEVER II study.
C-GULL is a large contemporary birth cohort following up to 3-4,000 infants. Nested within C-GULL, HBHF is investigating early predictors of anxiety in approximately 700 children through neuroimaging, immune profiling and behavioural and developmental assessments. The postholder will work closely with the C-GULL and HBHF teams in Liverpool and the ANXIOMICS lead team at the University of Cambridge.
Working under the supervision of Professor Melissa Gladstone, you will take scientific and methodological responsibility for aspects of the behavioural and developmental assessment programme. This will include:
- Supporting quality assurance of neurodevelopmental assessments
- Developing assessment manuals and standard operating procedures
- Training and calibrating assessors
- Contributing to the design of behavioural and developmental assessments for future follow-up
You will also have opportunities to analyse C-GULL data, contribute to publications and develop new research and funding proposals building on the C-GULL/HBHF platform.
For 0.25 FTE of the role, you will contribute to FEVER II, an international programme preparing for a clinical trial investigating neuroprotection and long-term neurological and developmental outcomes following severe CNS malaria in children in Malawi, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. You will provide technical support for neurodevelopmental and neurocognitive assessments, including:
- Translation and piloting of assessment tools
- Staff training
- Quality assurance and harmonisation of assessment approaches across study sites
You should have a PhD, or be close to completion, in psychology, neuroscience, developmental science, medicine or a related discipline, and ideally have experience of standardised neurodevelopmental or behavioural assessment in infants or young children. Experience of longitudinal or cohort research, data analysis, research proposal development, global child health or cross-cultural assessment would be advantageous.
You will need excellent communication, organisational and scientific writing skills, an ability to work independently within multidisciplinary and international research teams, and a strong commitment to high-quality research. Good Clinical Practice certification, or willingness to undertake this, will also be required.
This is an exciting opportunity for a researcher wishing to develop an independent profile in child neurodevelopmental and perinatal research while contributing to major UK and international studies addressing child development, mental health and neurological outcomes.
If you are still awaiting your PhD to be awarded you will be appointed at Grade 6, spine point 30. Upon written confirmation that you have been awarded your PhD, your salary will be increased to Grade 7, spine point 31.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We are committed to enhancing a workforce as diverse as our community and particularly encourage applicants who are of minoritised genders and ethnic backgrounds, living with a disability, and/or are members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Closing Date: 29 September 2026 23:30
£39,906 to £46,049 per annum (pro rata)
Postdoctoral Research Associate 0.7FTE - Grade 7 in Liverpool employer: EHS
The University of Liverpool is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in child neurodevelopment research. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have the opportunity to contribute to significant UK and international studies while developing your independent research profile. Located in a dynamic city, the university provides access to diverse resources and a supportive environment for researchers dedicated to making a meaningful impact in child health and development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate 0.7FTE - Grade 7 in Liverpool
✨Utilise University Networks
Let’s make the most of those university psych societies! Engage with fellow students and professors, as they often have insider info about part-time roles in the field of psychology. Plus, don’t forget to tap into career fairs – local organisations are always on the lookout for fresh talent!
✨Get Involved in Research Projects
Dive into research opportunities within your department or nearby psychology labs. Not only will this enhance your CV, but it’s also a fantastic way to meet professionals in the field who might know of part-time positions that aren’t advertised widely.
✨Showcase Your Passion Online
Create a public portfolio or a blog that showcases your thoughts on psychological topics. Sharing your insights online, perhaps on platforms like Medium, can help you get noticed by potential employers who are looking for passionate part-time psychologists.
✨Apply Directly on EHS's Website
When you spot part-time roles like the Postdoctoral Research Associate 0.7FTE - Grade 7 at EHS, make sure you apply directly on their website! This not only shows your interest but can also help you stand out as a proactive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate 0.7FTE - Grade 7 in Liverpool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a part-time role in psychology, make sure to showcase any relevant experience you’ve got. This could be placements, volunteer work, or even insightful coursework. Show us how your background has prepared you for this specific position at EHS!
Demonstrate Your Communication Skills:Communication is key in psychology! Use your CV and cover letter to illustrate how you’ve effectively communicated complex ideas or worked with diverse groups. This could be through presentations, group projects, or any mentoring roles you've held—let us see those skills shine!
Tailor Your Personal Statement:In your cover letter, don’t just tell us why you want this role at EHS; dive into your passion for psychology! Mention specific areas of interest or any unique insights you've gained during your studies that relate to what we do. This shows us that you’re not just looking for any part-time job, but that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact.
Keep Your Availability Clear:Since this is a part-time position, it's super important to be transparent about your availability. In your application, include the days and times you're free to work. This helps us understand how well you can fit into our team at EHS—and makes scheduling a breeze!
How to prepare for a job interview at EHS
✨Show Off Your Understanding of Psychological Concepts
When chatting with EHS, make sure to highlight your grasp of key psychological theories and frameworks. Be ready to discuss their application in real-world scenarios, perhaps how you've tackled cases during your studies or placements. This is your chance to show them you're not just book-smart but also practical!
✨Be Prepared for Role-Playing or Case Studies
In psychology roles, especially part-time gigs, you might face some role-plays or case study scenarios during the interview. Don't shy away from demonstrating your thought process! Practicing your responses to hypothetical situations can help showcase your analytical skills and empathy, which are crucial in this field.
✨Discuss Your Availability and Flexibility
Since this role is part-time, it’s essential to be upfront about your availability. Highlight any flexibility you have during certain days or hours, as this can be a big plus for EHS. Showing that you're adaptable will signal that you’re keen to fit in with their schedule.
✨Prepare Specific Questions About Their Approach
Demonstrating genuine interest in EHS will set you apart! Come prepared with questions about their therapy methods, client demographics, or team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if their values align with your own – a win-win situation!
