At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct qualitative research to support GPs' career satisfaction and retention.
- Company: Join The University of Manchester's innovative health services research team.
- Benefits: Market-leading pension, excellent leave, health services, and discounts.
- Other info: Engage with diverse stakeholders and travel across England for research.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on NHS challenges while developing valuable research skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in qualitative and mixed-methods research is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We wish to appoint a Research Associate with expertise in qualitative and mixed‑methods health services research to join the primary care and health workforce research team at The University of Manchester. The successful candidate will contribute to the delivery of PROSPER‑GP: learning from PRactice and individual Outcomes to Support general Practitioner Enhanced Retention, an NIHR‑funded programme of research led by Dr Laura Jefferson.
PROSPER‑GP is a six‑year programme that will identify how we can best support general practitioners (GPs) to have satisfying careers and remain in their roles for longer. A key component of this research is the delivery of qualitative case studies in GP practices, learning from practices that do well in retaining GPs to develop policy recommendations and organisational strategies.
The Research Associate will also support stakeholder engagement activities (including with GPs, patients and policymakers), and the co‑production and dissemination of findings. The Research Associate will work closely with Dr Laura Jefferson and the wider research team, supporting qualitative data collection and analysis. Using observational, interview and focus group methods, travel to general practice settings across England will be required.
This role offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to high‑impact, policy‑relevant research addressing one of the most pressing challenges facing the NHS, while developing skills in applied qualitative and mixed‑methods research, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge mobilisation.
What you will get in return:
- Fantastic market‑leading Pension scheme
- Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
- Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
- Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
- Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Research Associate (Qualitative) in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
Contact Detail:
The University of Manchester Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (Qualitative) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at The University of Manchester, especially those in the health services research field. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into qualitative research methods. Brush up on your observational and focus group techniques, as these will be key in discussions. We want to show that we’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it in real-world settings.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase our passion for improving GP retention! When we talk about our experiences, let’s highlight any relevant projects or case studies we've worked on. This will demonstrate our commitment to the cause and align with the goals of the PROSPER-GP programme.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, we can tailor our submission to match the specific needs of the role, making it stand out even more.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (Qualitative) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in qualitative and mixed-methods research. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or experiences!
Show Your Passion for Research: Let us know why you’re excited about contributing to the PROSPER-GP programme. Share your thoughts on the importance of supporting GPs and how your background can help make a difference in this area.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with the PROSPER-GP programme and its objectives. Understand the key components of qualitative research and how they apply to health services. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Questions
Since the role involves engaging with GPs, patients, and policymakers, think about how you would approach these interactions. Be ready to discuss your experience in stakeholder engagement and how you can effectively communicate findings to diverse audiences.
✨Showcase Your Qualitative Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with qualitative data collection methods like interviews and focus groups. Bring examples of past projects where you’ve successfully gathered and analysed qualitative data, highlighting your analytical skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the team dynamics, the challenges faced in the research, or how success is measured in this role. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the position is right for you.