At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct impactful research on maternal health and inequalities in pregnancy.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham, a leader in health sciences research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in maternity outcomes while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: PhD or near completion in relevant field; experience in mixed methods research.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Department of Applied Health Sciences, School of Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Grade: 7
Part Time, 0.5 FTE (18.75 hours per week)
Fixed Term contract up to June 2028
Closing date: 16th September 2026
This post will be offered at Grade 7 or Grade 8, depending on the skills and experience of the successful candidate. Only one appointment will be made at a maximum of 0.5 FTE.
Background
Applications are invited for an ambitious Mixed Methods Research Fellow to work at the University of Birmingham across a nationally-leading research programme funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) as part of the NIHR Maternity Disparities Consortium (MDC). The NIHR Maternity Disparities Consortium (NIHR MDC) is a £50 million NIHR investment which brings together a diverse range of organisations with expertise in research, capacity development and working with people and communities to deliver a step change in maternity outcomes and developing future research leaders in this area of need. The research carried out by the consortium will focus on inequalities before, during and after pregnancy.
The postholder will work within the pregnancy, birth and early postnatal maternal health theme (theme 2), including research programmes in cardiometabolic risk prevention and management, and specifically, remote blood pressure monitoring in pregnancy and the postnatal period. The NIHR MDC is co-ordinated from the University of Birmingham (Research) and Newcastle University (Research and Capacity Development). The postholder will be based at the University of Birmingham. The University operates hybrid working but it is expected you will spend the majority of your time on site.
The researcher will support the MDC in delivering impactful research and knowledge mobilisation activities with partners across the health and care system. You will be expected to support the development and delivery of components of the theme’s research programme initially until the 31st of May 2028.
Role Summary
- Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids
- Operate within area of specialism
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results
- Contribute to generating funding
- Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar
Main Duties
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research aligned to the theme under the guidance of senior staff and within agreed timeline, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Identify, recruit and consent research participants
- Conduct literature searching and reviewing
- Collect, analyse and interpret qualitative, multi and mixed method data using appropriate methods
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Undertake management/administration/ethics/governance related activity arising from research
- Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
- Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
- Foster a fair and equitable workplace for all staff
- Identify and respond to equality and diversity issues in line with relevant university policies and procedures
Person Specification
- A PhD relevant to the research area (or near completion), or equivalent PhD level qualifications.
- Experience of undertaking and timely completion of qualitative, multi and mixed method maternal and/or women’s health research, ideally in the NHS
- Good knowledge of ethical and research governance in health-related research
- Experience of participant recruitment and taking informed consent
- Experience of using qualitative, multi and mixed method data collection and analysis methods
- Evidence of peer-reviewed publications
- Experience of working in multi-disciplinary research teams
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly
- High level analytical capability
- Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
- Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics and duties under the Equality Act 2010. Including fostering good relations and advancing the universities Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED).
OH&DBS required
The University is committed to safeguarding and we promote safe recruitment practice, therefore all associated pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. Due to the nature of the work undertaken in this role all successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory Occupational Health and DBS clearance prior to appointment.
Further information can be obtained by contacting key members of theme 2, Professor Laura Jones l.l.jones@bham.ac.uk and Professor Vicky Hodgetts Morton v.a.h.morton@bham.ac.uk
Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.
We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
Research Fellow I - Department of Applied Health Sciences - 107891 - Grade 7 in Birmingham employer: The University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises diversity, inclusion, and professional development. Located in the heart of Edgbaston, Birmingham, employees benefit from a supportive environment that fosters collaboration and innovation, alongside opportunities for personal growth and engagement in cutting-edge research. With a commitment to sustainability and a focus on creating a fair workplace, the University ensures that all staff can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the academic community.
Contact Details:
The University of Birmingham Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow I - Department of Applied Health Sciences - 107891 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
✨Dive into Professional Networks
Check out local professional associations in health sciences. They often host networking events where you can meet people already working in the field and may even hear about part-time opportunities before they’re advertised!
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If you’re still studying or recently graduated, don’t forget to make the most of your university’s career services. They frequently post part-time openings and may even know of some tailored for health sciences students.
✨Volunteer for Extra Experience
Consider volunteering at healthcare facilities or community health organisations. It’s a great way to gain relevant experience, build your network, and may lead directly to part-time job offers. Plus, it looks fantastic on your CV!
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow I - Department of Applied Health Sciences - 107891 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV to the Health Sciences Field:When you're applying for a part-time role in health sciences administration at The University of Birmingham, make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in the healthcare sector. Include any internships or volunteer work in health settings, and showcase skills like organisation, communication, and familiarity with healthcare regulations. This will help us see how you fit into the team right from the get-go!
Highlight Your Administrative Skills:In the health sciences arena, administrative skills are crucial. Make sure to showcase experiences where you managed schedules, maintained records, or supported healthcare professionals in their tasks. Be specific about the tools and tools or software you’ve used, as this can set you apart from other candidates.
Emphasise Your Learning Mindset:For a part-time role like this, we’re looking for someone eager to learn and grow. Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your motivation for getting into health sciences administration. Share your career goals and what excites you about this field—passion often makes a lasting impression!
Apply Through Our Website!:Don't forget to complete your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to track your application and ensures you get all the relevant updates. Plus, we’ve streamlined the process to make it as smooth as possible—you've got this!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Birmingham
✨Show Off Your Organisation Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key! Be ready to discuss how you manage multiple tasks and prioritise your work. Maybe share a story from your past where you successfully managed a heavy workload or improved a process – it’ll show how you can handle the part-time role effectively at The University of Birmingham.
✨Brush Up on Relevant Software
You’ll likely be using specific health administration software, so get familiar with tools like Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems or practice management software. If you’ve had experience with any of these, be sure to highlight that during your interview, it’ll set you apart from other candidates.
✨Display Your Flexibility and Availability
Since this is a part-time role, be prepared to discuss your availability and how you plan to manage your time effectively. It’s crucial for employers to see that you're flexible and can fit into their schedule – be proactive in demonstrating your readiness to adapt to their needs at The University of Birmingham.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Healthcare
Express your genuine interest in health sciences and how you want to contribute to the wellbeing of the community. Sharing a personal story or motivation that led you to apply for this specific role at The University of Birmingham can really resonate with interviewers and show your commitment to the field.
