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- Tasks: Support and train peer researchers while analysing qualitative data for impactful mental health research.
- Company: Join a leading research team focused on survivor wellbeing and trauma-informed practices.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of survivors through innovative participatory research.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in qualitative research methods.
- Other info: Collaborative environment that values lived experiences and promotes wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 42000 £ per year.
Overview
About the role:
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Participatory Research to join an NIHR project that investigates and seeks to enhance the mental wellbeing of survivors of coercive control. This study has been co-developed with the Violence, Abuse and Mental Health Network’s (VAMHN) Lived Experience Action Group (LEAG) and aims to build a theoretical framework for recovery and wellbeing to inform the design of future interventions and services.
The postholder will play a central role in supporting and training peer researchers, collecting and analysing qualitative data, and leading the development of the theoretical framework. They will work closely with the wider project team to ensure survivor perspectives shape the research process and outcomes and will contribute to dissemination through academic publications, conferences, and non-academic outputs such as policy briefings and creative engagement.
The role reports to Dr Sharli Paphitis, Senior Research Fellow in Qualitative Methods, and will be embedded in a collaborative, trauma-informed environment. King’s Women’s Mental Health and VAMHN are committed to wellbeing, flexibility, and actively welcome applications from those with lived experience of violence, abuse, or mental health challenges.
This is a part-time post (17.5 hours per week); you will be offered a fixed term contract from 1 December 2025 until 31 December 2026.
Please note that as the role is part-time, the salary listed in the advert will be amended accordingly.
About you
Essential criteria
- Collaborative and team-oriented mindset with a commitment to inclusive and survivor-centred research.
- PhD in a relevant field (e.g., social sciences, psychology, public health, or related).
- Demonstrable experience in participatory qualitative research approaches and conducting qualitative data analysis.
- Experience of working with peer researchers, including providing guidance and support in qualitative data collection and analysis.
- A strong grasp of the use of theory in qualitative research, ideally using theory building approaches such as grounded theory.
- Evidence of strong written communication skills, with examples of published academic articles or other work.
- Familiarity with the ethical and data security and governance requirements of Health Research Authority approved studies.
- A strong commitment to trauma-informed practice, wellbeing, and self and collective care.
Desirable criteria
- Experience of conducting research on violence, abuse, and mental health.
- Experience of working with or supporting peer researchers with experience of violence, abuse, or mental health challenges.
- Experience with creative and/or arts-based research methods.
- Experience of sharing research findings with non-academic audiences.
*Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting award of their PhDs will be considered. In these circumstances the appointment will be made at Grade 5, spine point 30 with the title of Research Assistant.
Further information
We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV and a supporting statement detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.
Interviews are due to be held on the 29th October.
£45,031 to £48,607 per annum pro rata, including London Weighting
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Postdoctoral Research Associate in Participatory Research employer: King's College London
Contact Detail:
King's College London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Participatory Research
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of participatory research. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or mentors. You never know who might have a lead on your next opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to qualitative research and trauma-informed practices. Think about how your experiences align with the role and be ready to share specific examples. Confidence is key, so rehearse until you feel comfortable!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for survivor-centred research during interviews. Share your insights on how to enhance mental wellbeing and discuss any relevant projects you've worked on. This will demonstrate your commitment to the role and the values of the organisation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. Let’s get you that postdoc position!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Participatory Research
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in participatory research and qualitative data analysis. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to detail how you meet the essential criteria and sprinkle in some examples of your work. Remember, we’re looking for strong written communication skills, so make it engaging!
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit: Since this role is all about teamwork, emphasise your collaborative mindset in both your CV and supporting statement. Share experiences where you’ve worked with peer researchers or contributed to inclusive research projects.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it helps us keep track of all the amazing candidates like you who are interested in joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at King's College London
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of participatory research and the mental wellbeing of survivors. Familiarise yourself with the NIHR project and the Violence, Abuse and Mental Health Network’s work. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role emphasises teamwork and survivor-centred research, be ready to discuss your experiences working collaboratively. Share examples of how you've supported peer researchers or engaged with communities, highlighting your commitment to inclusivity and trauma-informed practices.
✨Prepare for Qualitative Data Discussions
Brush up on your qualitative data analysis skills and be prepared to discuss your approach to theory building, especially grounded theory. Think of specific instances where you’ve applied these methods in your previous work, as this will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement
Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Tailor it to highlight how you meet the essential and desirable criteria. Use clear examples from your past work, especially any publications or creative engagement efforts, to illustrate your fit for the position.
