At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative mental health research and conduct impactful trials.
- Company: Lancaster University, a top-ranked institution with a focus on health research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and promoting well-being.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health care and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Qualifications: PhD in a related field and strong background in mental health research.
The predicted salary is between 39906 - 46049 € per year.
Health Research
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £39,906 to £46,049
Full-Time/Indefinite with End Date
Closing Date: Wednesday 20 May 2026
Interview Date: Friday 12 June 2026
Reference: 0173-26
The Division of Health Research (DHR), within Lancaster University’s Faculty of Health and Medicine, is seeking to appoint an experienced Senior Research Associate to join the new Mental Health Research Group (MHRG). The MHRG is a five-year initiative funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), who have recently awarded Lancaster University almost £11 million to conduct world-class mental health research in the North West region.
More than 13,000 people in Lancashire and South Cumbria have been diagnosed with a severe mental illness, while Blackpool has the highest rate of deaths linked to addiction and suicide in England. In conjunction with partners at the University of Manchester and King’s College London, the group will identify local needs and priorities for mental health research and work alongside residents to develop a more proactive, preventative model of care.
Four initial research themes aim to tackle inequities in access to effective mental health interventions, particularly for those experiencing multiple disadvantages and/or complex mental health issues, who are often excluded from mainstream services. The voices of diverse individuals with lived experience are central to all aspects of the research programme.
You will work alongside Dr Jasper Palmier-Claus, Professor Steven Jones and Dr Euan Lawson to lead and deliver a randomised control trial for enabling physical health appointments in people with severe mental health difficulties. This role will involve measuring the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the intervention, as well as carrying out a process evaluation to better understand how and why the intervention works, for whom, and in what contexts.
You will have a strong background in mental health research and a PhD in a related discipline (or equivalent experience). Knowledge of clinical trial methodology and qualitative approaches, plus an understanding of the ethical and governance processes associated with intervention studies, would be advantageous.
You will be expected to contribute to the development of future competitive funding applications to ensure sustainability in mental health research; previous experience is desirable.
The post will be based in the Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research at Lancaster University (Health Innovation campus) and will involve some travel within the UK. Our team and the Division of Health Research offer a friendly environment that strongly supports the individual needs of each employee and actively promotes a healthy work-life balance.
The Faculty is committed to family-friendly and flexible working policies and has held a Silver Athena SWAN award since 2014 in recognition of its good employment practice undertaken to address gender equality in higher education and research.
The post is available to start July 2026 and we will consider against the business needs of the project flexible working arrangements including condensed hours, days/hours worked and flexible start and finish times.
You will join Lancaster University on an indefinite contract; however, the role remains contingent on external funding, which at this time is due to come to an end on 30th June 2031.
Applicants wishing to consider the Skilled Worker Route should ensure they meet the points requirement before applying. Further information can be found on the UK Visas and Immigration website.
Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based. We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues.
Senior Research Associate (MHRG) employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to excellence in teaching and research, particularly within the Division of Health Research. The supportive work culture prioritises employee wellbeing and offers flexible working arrangements, alongside opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative environment focused on impactful mental health research. With a strong emphasis on diversity and equality, employees are encouraged to contribute to meaningful projects that address critical health issues in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate (MHRG)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mental health research field, especially those linked to Lancaster University. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Mental Health Research Group and their projects. Knowing their work inside out will show you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want you to sound confident and authentic, so don’t just memorise answers—make them your own!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate (MHRG)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Research Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in mental health research and any specific skills that align with the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about mental health research and how your background makes you the perfect fit for the MHRG. Keep it engaging and personal, so we can get to know you better.
Showcase Your Research Skills:Since this role involves leading a randomised control trial, be sure to showcase your research skills and any experience with clinical trial methodology. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in mental health research, especially those relevant to the MHRG. Familiarise yourself with the specific themes of the initiative and be ready to discuss how your background aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to highlight your previous research experience, particularly any work involving clinical trials or qualitative methods. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to successful projects and what you learned from them.
✨Understand the Ethical Landscape
Brush up on the ethical and governance processes associated with intervention studies. Being able to articulate your understanding of these aspects will demonstrate your readiness for the role and your commitment to responsible research practices.
✨Engage with the Team's Vision
Research the key players in the MHRG, like Dr Jasper Palmier-Claus and Professor Steven Jones. Show genuine interest in their work and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their vision for proactive mental health care.
