At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a research team to investigate and improve support for Armed Forces families.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a diverse and inclusive institution committed to impactful research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and collaboration in a dynamic research setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of military-connected families through your research.
- Qualifications: PhD or near completion in relevant fields, with research experience and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
College of Social Sciences
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
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to July 2027
Closing date: 20th September 2026
UK travel may be required for this role
Background
A postdoctoral researcher is sought to join Dr Gabriela Misca's research team on a study investigating policy and practice relating to Armed Forces families. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful research, engage with a range of stakeholders, and help generate evidence that can improve support for military-connected families and communities. The post is available immediately on a fixed-term contract until 31 July 2027.
To create and contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking a specified range of activities within an established research programme and/or specific research project. The role will involve mixed-methods research, stakeholder engagement, research and policy analysis and contribution to high-impact research outputs. The research fellow will be responsible for a variety of tasks across the research project, including but not limited to recruiting participants, data collection and carrying out administrative duties in support of the project.
Role Summary
Work within specified research programme and contribute to writing bids
Contribute to the creation of knowledge
Operate within area of specialism
Be involved in participant recruitment and data collection
Analyse and interpret research findings and results
Contribute to public understanding of research and support other members of the research team
Main Duties
The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.
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.
Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
Undertake management/administration 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
Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as literature reviews, research interviews, online surveys and focus groups
Analyse and interpret data
Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
Support organisation and facilitation of stakeholder engagement activities, including research panels, workshops and consultation events
Liaise with Armed Forces stakeholders, charities and family support organisations
Contribute to co-produced approaches to research design, interpretation and dissemination
Contribute to the preparation of policy briefings, reports, presentations and academic outputs
Develop or adapt research techniques, models and methods
Work collaboratively with the Principal Investigator whilst taking responsibility for agreed aspects of project delivery
Provide guidance, as required to support staff, students and stakeholders who may be assisting with the research
Review research and policy literature and provide draft summaries
Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research project objectives or deadlines
Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research project
Attend meetings as requested by the PI
Undertake any other tasks and duties as requested by the PI
Fosters 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
Research experience in Psychology, Social Policy, Health and Social Care Research or a closely relevant discipline
Ability to travel for data collection and stakeholder involvement
Experience of research involving diverse family forms and/or hard to reach populations
Experience of participatory, co-produced or stakeholder-engaged research
High level analytical capability
Ability to communicate complex information clearly
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
Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
Informal enquiries to Gabriela Misca, email: g.m.misca@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 - School of Education - 107656 - 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
