At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research on peer-led interventions for mental health and family support.
- Company: Join Lancaster University's interdisciplinary Mental Health Research Group.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with mentoring and growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health and family wellbeing in your community.
- Qualifications: PhD in a related field and passion for participatory research methods.
The predicted salary is between 39906 - 46049 £ per year.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £39,906 to £46,049 (Full time, indefinite with end date)
Closing Date: Friday 19 June 2026
The School of Social Sciences within the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (FHASS) is seeking to appoint a full-time Senior Research Associate to join the University’s new interdisciplinary Mental Health Research Group (MHRG) funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR, 2026 - 2031).
About the role
The Senior Research Associate will play an essential role within a team of researchers who will deliver a programme of innovative participatory research, focused on the co‑design of a peer‑led intervention for preventing family breakdown in vulnerable groups with unmet mental health needs. The work will take place in Greater Lancashire and South Cumbria, addressing growing concerns about mental health and family breakdown, especially for children in public care.
Responsibilities
- Lead and conduct participatory research on co‑designed peer‑led interventions.
- Engage with external stakeholders, including service users, statutory services, voluntary organisations, academics and clinicians.
- Perform literature searches and reviews, and design and manage qualitative data collection.
- Analyse qualitative data using appropriate methods.
- Collaborate with the MHRG and contribute to scholarship within the programme.
- Support the development of research outputs and presentations.
Qualifications
- Completed or near completion of a PhD in a related field.
- Strong interest in participatory research methods.
- Experience in building relationships with service users, statutory services and voluntary organisations.
- Robust knowledge of literature searching, data collection, management and qualitative data analysis.
- Previous research experience highly desirable.
Benefits and Working Conditions
Full‑time position with an indefinite contract starting on 1 July 2026, with flexible working arrangements. Travel across Greater Lancashire and South Cumbria is required. The role is supported by research theme leads and partner organisations, with opportunities for development, mentoring and collaboration across the Faculty of Health and Medicine.
Application
To apply online, please visit the Lancaster University vacancies portal. For additional information, contact Professor Karen Broadhurst or Dr Joanna Kostka.
Equal Opportunity
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community, regardless of age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity and equality of opportunity.
Senior Research Associate - 0320-26 employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment within the School of Social Sciences. As a Senior Research Associate, you will benefit from flexible working arrangements, opportunities for professional development, and collaboration with leading experts in mental health research. The university's commitment to diversity and community engagement ensures that your contributions will have a meaningful impact on vulnerable groups in Greater Lancashire and South Cumbria.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate - 0320-26
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the mental health research field, especially those connected to the University. Attend events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and collaborators.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for participatory research! When you get the chance to chat with interviewers or at networking events, share your ideas on how to engage service users effectively. This will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on qualitative data analysis methods. Be ready to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the role. We want to see your expertise shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Lancaster University.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate - 0320-26
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Research Associate role. Highlight your experience in participatory research methods and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for mental health research shine through! Share why you're interested in this specific role and how you can contribute to the Mental Health Research Group. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via the Lancaster University vacancies portal. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in participatory research methods. Familiarise yourself with the Mental Health Research Group's focus areas and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with service users, statutory services, and voluntary organisations in the past. This will show that you understand the importance of collaboration in research and can build those essential relationships.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to talk about your experience with qualitative data analysis. Bring specific examples of projects where you’ve designed and managed data collection, and explain the methods you used to analyse the data.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the role and the research group. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the position is the right fit for you. Think about asking about future research directions or collaboration opportunities.
