At a Glance
- Tasks: Support researchers in securing funding for sustainable health and social care projects.
- Company: Lancaster Medical School, a leader in sustainability research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in environmental sustainability while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in environmental research and collaborative methodologies required.
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: Wednesday 01 July 2026
Interview Date: Friday 17 July 2026
Reference: 0509-26
Working with the RSS Sustainability Strategic Theme Lead and a small team of fellow researchers, the appointee will support researchers applying for research funding in the field of environmental sustainability in health and social care, as well as researchers looking to promote environmental sustainability in research delivery more broadly. This role will support staff development improving knowledge and skills across the RSS workforce in sustainability in health and social care research.
The RSS aim is to provide researchers, especially (but not exclusively) those applying for and in receipt of NIHR funding with free access to support and expertise. Lancaster is host to one of eight RSS Hubs delivering the national service and the NIHR RSS Specialist Centre for Social Care, in partnership with the Universities of Liverpool and Manchester, and Manchester Metropolitan University.
You will have a background in an area of relevance (e.g. environmental impact assessment, buildings / estates decarbonisation, energy efficiency), ideally experience in a variety of research methodologies and experience of working collaboratively with partners within and outside the academic setting. You will also have a track record of high-quality peer reviewed publications/grant income appropriate to your career stage.
Lancaster Medical School provides a friendly environment strongly supporting 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 position is available for immediate start and we are open to discussing flexible working arrangements including working week and days/hours worked, flexible start and finish times or condensed hours. The role is open to being undertaken remotely but there will be certain duties/responsibilities that require in-person presence at Lancaster University. The balance will be agreed with the successful candidate.
You will join us on an indefinite contract however the roles remain contingent on external funding which currently is due to end on 30th September 2028.
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.
Senior Research Associate (Sustainable Health and Care Research) employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster Medical School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. With a strong commitment to flexible working arrangements and a focus on sustainability in health and social care research, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The institution's Silver Athena SWAN award highlights its dedication to gender equality and good employment practices, making it an attractive place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate (Sustainable Health and Care Research)
✨Dive into Environmental Networks
Get involved with sustainability-focused organisations and attend their events. Look for local meetups or conferences in environmental management where you can connect with professionals in the field. This can lead to insider info on job openings at companies like Lancaster University that might not be advertised widely.
✨Show Your Passion with Projects
Consider undertaking personal or community projects that highlight your dedication to sustainability. Whether it's a local clean-up or a carbon footprint assessment, document your findings and results. This not only boosts your portfolio but also shows potential employers like Lancaster University that you're proactive and serious about the field.
✨Seek Out Green Job Boards
Don’t just rely on general job boards. Explore specific platforms that focus on sustainability and environmental management roles. Websites like EnvironmentJobs and Sustainable Business can be goldmines for full-time positions at companies like Lancaster University. Keep an eye out for their aggregation of listings!
✨Let Your Online Presence Shine
Make sure your social media and professional profiles reflect your passion for sustainability. Share articles, engage in discussions, and connect with leaders in the field. Your active presence can make a lasting impression on hiring managers at companies like Lancaster University when they search for candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate (Sustainable Health and Care Research)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sustainability:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for sustainability shine through. Share any relevant experiences, like projects, volunteer work, or events you've participated in that align with Lancaster University's values. This position isn't just about meeting qualifications; it's about genuinely caring for the environment and showing us why you're the right fit for Senior Research Associate (Sustainable Health and Care Research).
Highlight Relevant Qualifications and Experience:Make sure to showcase any specific qualifications, such as degrees in environmental science or certifications in sustainability practices in your CV. We want to see how your academic background and practical experiences align with the job you're applying for, so don’t hold back on anything that demonstrates your expertise in environmental management.
Tailor Your CV to the Role:As we're looking for someone to jump into a full-time role, be specific about previous roles or projects that demonstrate your capabilities in sustainability. Use bullet points to make accomplishments clear, and don’t forget to quantify your achievements wherever possible – it’s all about showing us the impact of your work!
Research Lancaster University and Reflect It In Your Application:We love candidates who take the time to understand what we're about. Mention specific initiatives or projects that Lancaster University is known for in your cover letter. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely excited about the chance to contribute to our mission in the role of Senior Research Associate (Sustainable Health and Care Research).
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Brush Up on Environmental Legislation
Given that we're diving into sustainability and environmental management, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of current environmental laws and regulations. Be prepared to discuss how these laws apply to real-world scenarios, as you might face some technical questions about compliance and best practices during your chat with Lancaster University.
✨Showcase Your Experience with Sustainability Projects
When you're discussing your background, highlight specific sustainability initiatives you've been involved in. Whether it’s a project at university or work experience, sharing measurable outcomes and your role will demonstrate your hands-on skills, which is super important for this full-time role at Lancaster University.
✨Familiarity with Tools and Software
Make sure you're familiar with any relevant tools or software commonly used in environmental management, like GIS for mapping or data analysis tools. Bring this up in your interview as it shows you’re not only passionate but also prepared to roll up your sleeves and get to work!
✨Connect Your Values with the Company's Mission
Full-time roles are all about team fit, so it’s important to align your personal values with those of Lancaster University. Be ready to discuss why you're passionate about sustainability and how you can contribute to their mission, as this will really resonate with the interviewers and show that you’re genuinely invested in their goals.
