At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct impactful research on maternity health and inequalities.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham's leading health research team.
- Benefits: Part-time role with competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Hybrid working environment with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in maternal health while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: PhD or near completion in a relevant field, with strong research experience.
The predicted salary is between 56535 - 56535 £ per year.
Department of Applied Health Sciences, School of Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 8, salary £56,535.
Grade: 8
Part Time, 0.5 FTE (18.75 hours per week)
Fixed Term contract up to May 2028
Closing date: 16th September 2026
This post will be offered at Grade 8 or Grade 7, 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
- Initiate and conduct original research which has measurable outcomes and is reflected in a growing national and often incipient international reputation
- Plan, design and co-ordinate research activities and programmes
- Contribute to the development of research strategies
- Publish results of own research
- Supervise PhD students
- Contribute to the Department/School through management/leadership
- Develop and make substantial contributions to knowledge transfer, enterprise, business engagement, public engagement activities, widening participation, schools outreach or similar activities at Department/School level or further within the University
Main Duties
- To plan and carry out research, using appropriate methodology and techniques.
- Pursue personal research including developing research ideas and winning support, including financial support
- Plan, publish and/or execute high quality research
- Project manage research activities, and/or supervise other research staff
- Present high quality findings in publications and conference proceedings
- Develop novel methodologies and techniques appropriate to the type of research being pursued
- Supervise and examine PhD students, both within and out with the University
- Provide expert advice to colleagues and students within discipline
- Contribute to the administration/management of research across the Department/School
- Develop and make substantial contributions to knowledge transfer, enterprise, business engagement, and public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University
- Contribute to some administrative activities within the University, typically relating to research
- Apply knowledge in a way that develops new intellectual understanding
- Actively manages equality, diversity and inclusion through monitoring and evaluation and actively challenging unacceptable behaviour in line with university policies
Person Specification
- A PhD relevant to the research area (or near completion), or equivalent PhD-level qualifications
- Extensive research experience, aligned to the theme, and scholarship within subject specialism
- Experience and achievement reflected in a growing reputation
- Extensive experience and demonstrated success in planning, undertaking and project managing research to deliver high quality results
- Identify, recruit and consent research participants
- Conduct literature searching and reviewing
- Collect, analyse and interpret qualitative, multi and mixed method data using appropriate methods
- Extensive experience of applying and/or developing and devising successful qualitative, multi and mixed methods research
- Extensive experience and achievement in knowledge transfer, enterprise and similar activity
- Ability to identify issues with the potential to impact on protected groups and take appropriate action
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 II - Department of Applied Health Sciences - 107893 - Grade 8 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 II - Department of Applied Health Sciences - 107893 - Grade 8 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!
✨Tap into Your University’s Career Services
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!
✨Search for Local Job Boards
Keep an eye on local job boards and websites specific to healthcare administration in your area. Sites filled with local job openings can offer part-time positions that might fly under the radar but could be perfect for you to jump into!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow II - Department of Applied Health Sciences - 107893 - Grade 8 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.
