At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a groundbreaking project to enhance mental health through nature-based therapies.
- Company: The University of Salford, a rapidly growing institution in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 32 days leave, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community dedicated to improving lives and wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health equity while working with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Background in Geography, Environmental Studies, Planning, Health, or related fields; GIS skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The University of Salford is the fastest growing university in the Northwest and the 5th fastest growing in the UK. This is an exciting joint post between the University of Salford and Edge Hill University, with the candidate being based at Salford’s Environmental Research & Innovation Centre (ERIC).
GreenME (advancing Greencare in Europe: an integrated multi-scalar approach for the expansion of nature-based therapies to improve Mental health Equity) is a 4-year (2023 – 2027) €5.8 million Horizon Europe project, involving some 19 core partners and an array of other external organisations across Europe and the USA. The project aims to identify ways in which effective nature-based therapy and a broader green care framework can be scaled-up to improve adult mental health and wellbeing equity, while also contributing to multiple socio-ecological co-benefits.
To that end, over 4 years, GreenME’s approach is to diagnose, to increase scientific evidence on the mental health and wellbeing benefits of green care and to empower green care actors. The evidence generated will offer replicable partnership models and guidelines to design impactful cross-sectorial green care systems, with national healthcare systems and local governments amongst the beneficiaries, leading to a higher uptake of nature-based therapy and a general reframing of the green infrastructure functionality.
You will work primarily with Prof Mike Hardman (SEE), Prof Penny Cook (H&S) and Prof Michelle Howarth (Edge Hill), alongside the wider GreenME team. In the UK, this wider team consists of Dr Silvio Caputo at the University of Kent, Social Farms & Gardens and East Kent Mind.
We are looking for a passionate, highly-motivated and creative interdisciplinary researcher who has a background in Geography, Environmental Studies, Planning, Health or a related field; a core skill requirement involves the ability to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related tools. The UK team’s work cuts across multiple elements of GreenME, from exploring innovative policy and practice around green care, to the spatial assessment of schemes and impact of initiatives on the ground.
The post is a 0.9FTE 1 year Research Fellow (Grade 7) position and is available from August 2026. The successful candidate will ideally be available to start in the first week of August. Note this opportunity may close early depending on candidate volumes.
What’s in it for you?
- Competitive salary – and excellent pension scheme
- An impressive 32 days leave – plus bank holidays, additional time off at Christmas and the opportunity to buy even more!
- Flexible working – we support a culture of flexible and agile working to help you find the right balance
- Professional development – we offer a comprehensive package of training and development opportunities to help you achieve your full potential
- Our community – there’s a real sense of belonging here at Salford. We value diversity, in backgrounds and in experiences. Our difference makes us stronger, and together we share a passion for improving students’ lives
- The Perks! – MySalford, our online employee portal offers a wide range of lifestyle benefits and discounts
- Wellbeing support – all our people are important to us and we have services and facilities dedicated to your mental and physical health, ranging from an Employee Assistance Programme and counselling, to sports and fitness facilities including discounted gym memberships
Research Fellow in Greenspace and Health – Salford employer: Recruit4Mum
The University of Salford is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With competitive salaries, generous leave policies, and a commitment to flexible working, staff are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The collaborative environment at the Environmental Research & Innovation Centre fosters innovation and inclusivity, making it an ideal place for passionate researchers dedicated to advancing mental health equity through nature-based therapies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Greenspace and Health – Salford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Salford and Edge Hill University. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the team culture and what they really value in candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the GreenME project. Familiarise yourself with their goals and how your skills in GIS and interdisciplinary research can contribute. We want to see that passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your creativity! Think about innovative ideas you could bring to the table regarding nature-based therapies. We love fresh perspectives, so don’t hold back during discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who align with our mission to improve mental health equity.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Greenspace and Health – Salford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We want to see your passion for greenspace and health, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or research you've been involved in!
Show Off Your Skills:Since GIS is a core skill for this position, be sure to emphasise your experience with Geographic Information Systems and any related tools. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you bring to the table!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary to make your key achievements stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details and can process your application smoothly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our community at Salford!
How to prepare for a job interview at Recruit4Mum
✨Know Your Green Care Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest research and trends in green care and its impact on mental health. Familiarise yourself with the GreenME project and its objectives, as well as how your background in Geography or Environmental Studies can contribute to this exciting initiative.
✨Show Off Your GIS Skills
Since a core skill for this role involves Geographic Information Systems (GIS), be prepared to discuss your experience with these tools. Bring examples of past projects where you've used GIS to analyse data or create impactful visualisations that relate to environmental studies or health.
✨Connect with the Team
Research the professors and team members you'll be working with, like Prof Mike Hardman and Prof Penny Cook. Mention any relevant work or publications they've done that resonate with you, and express how you see yourself fitting into their interdisciplinary approach.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the GreenME project and its goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to the team's success. Think about how you can help scale up nature-based therapies and improve mental health equity.
