At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a research team to explore public health and develop valuable skills.
- Company: NIHR School for Public Health Research at Lancaster University.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and hands-on research experience.
- Other info: Exciting projects focused on trauma-informed research and public health systems.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on health inequalities while gaining practical research skills.
- Qualifications: Current Lancaster University undergraduates in years 2 or 3 with strong academic performance.
The predicted salary is between 12.96 - 12.96 £ per hour.
This is an exciting opportunity provided by the NIHR School for Public Health Research for two undergraduate students with an interest in a career in public health. The successful candidates will gain experience working within an established research team and develop valuable research skills.
Applicants Must Be:
- Current Lancaster University undergraduate students
- In the middle years of their first degree studies (normally between years 2 and 3 for a 3‑year programme or equivalent for a 4‑year programme)
- Expected to obtain a first or upper second class UK honours degree
The internship is a casual, part‑time opportunity (0.6 FTE, 3 days per week) over the 2026 summer period, based in the Division of Health Research at Lancaster University.
Project 1: Trauma‑informed, creative research on belonging, safety and first contact (CREATE + Recognised, Not Retold)
Suitable for students interested in health inequalities, the wider determinants of health, and participatory/creative qualitative research. Responsibilities include:
- Exploring what makes support‑service spaces feel safe and welcoming (or not)
- Translating learning from lived experience into feasible improvements for practice
- Structured learning in trauma‑informed approaches
- Involvement in knowledge translation, turning findings from creative activities into stakeholder‑ready learning for settings such as housing, council, NHS and voluntary sector
Project 2: Public health systems and health inequalities (Systems project using Qualitative Comparative Analysis)
Suitable for students interested in public health systems, policy action on inequalities, and innovative methods. Responsibilities include:
- Working with an experienced team using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) to explore configurations of system "conditions" that relate to action on health inequalities and social determinants
- Gaining experience with structured qualitative data sources and applying QCA in public health research
Supervision: Day‑to‑day supervision will be provided by the relevant project supervisor:
Project 1: Dr Yessica Mestre, Research Associate
Project 2: Dr Zoe Swithenbank, Senior Research Associate
Overall oversight and mentorship will be provided by Dr Rebecca Mead, Division of Health Research.
Deliverables: Interns will be expected to complete a short report and either a blog or a practice/public‑focused briefing at the end of the internship, with potential support for dissemination activities.
Contact:
For Project 1: Yessica Mestre – y.mestre@lancaster.ac.uk
For Project 2: Zoe Swithenbank – z.swithenbank@lancaster.ac.uk
Applicants should submit a letter of application and CV, indicating the project they are applying for, to the appropriate contact email.
NIHR SPHR Summer Internship in Public Health Research (x 2 posts) - 0493-26 employer: Lancaster University
The NIHR School for Public Health Research offers an enriching internship experience in Bailrigg, Lancaster, where students can immerse themselves in impactful public health research. With a supportive work culture that prioritises mentorship and professional development, interns will gain hands-on experience while contributing to meaningful projects addressing health inequalities. This role not only provides competitive remuneration but also fosters a collaborative environment that encourages innovative thinking and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NIHR SPHR Summer Internship in Public Health Research (x 2 posts) - 0493-26
✨Dive into PR Events
Get your foot in the door by attending local PR events, workshops, and networking meets. They’re a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals, learn the ropes, and even find potential internships you won’t see listed online!
✨Join PR Associations
Look into joining associations like the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA). They often have job boards and internships specifically for students. Plus, being a member shows your passion for the field, which can give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a public portfolio showcasing your writing, social media campaigns, or any PR projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to shine and shows potential employers, like Lancaster University, that you’re ready to make an impact in the real world.
✨Apply Directly through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through Lancaster University’s website. Internships often get filled quickly, so hit that apply button and stand out with your genuine interest and creativity!
We think you need these skills to ace NIHR SPHR Summer Internship in Public Health Research (x 2 posts) - 0493-26
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Writing Skills:In the world of public relations, your writing skills are everything. Make sure your CV and cover letter are not just free of typos but also showcase your ability to craft engaging narratives. Think about including examples of past writing projects, whether that's blog posts, social media campaigns, or press releases that demonstrate your flair for communication.
Highlight Any Relevant Experience:As an intern, you'll likely be expected to hit the ground running! So, don’t just list your previous jobs—highlight any experience relevant to PR, even if it's from coursework or volunteering. Did you help with a school event’s marketing? Include that! This shows you’re already familiar with the kind of work we do at Lancaster University.
Research Lancaster University Thoroughly:Before you hit 'send', make sure to dive deep into what Lancaster University stands for. Understanding our values and recent campaigns will help you tailor your application. Consider mentioning specific projects or initiatives in your cover letter; this shows us you’re genuinely interested and not just sending off generic applications!
Emphasise Your Eagerness to Learn:As an intern, it’s all about potential and willingness to grow. Use your cover letter to share why you want to dive into public relations and how this opportunity at Lancaster University aligns with your career goals. Show us that you’re ready to soak up everything you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Master the Art of Storytelling
In public relations, storytelling is key. Be prepared to discuss how you can craft compelling narratives for various audiences. Think about your past experiences—whether it's a school project or a personal blog—and showcase how you turned information into engaging stories.
✨Know Your Tools
Familiarity with PR tools like press release templates and media lists is crucial. Make sure you're up to speed with relevant online platforms, like Cision or Meltwater, which are often used for media monitoring and outreach. Mention any hands-on experience you have with similar tools to impress Lancaster University.
✨Highlight Your Passion and Eagerness to Learn
As an intern, your enthusiasm and willingness to learn can be just as crucial as existing skills. Be ready to talk about why you're drawn to public relations and how this internship fits into your career ambitions. Share examples of how you've actively sought out learning experiences.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Interviewers in PR often use situational questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Think about how you would handle a potential PR crisis or manage conflicting media requests. Practising these situational responses will show Lancaster University that you're ready to think on your feet.
