At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct mixed-methods research on post-stroke fatigue and engage with stroke survivors.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a leading institution in sports and rehabilitation sciences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time position, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to equality, diversity, and impactful research.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in stroke recovery while working with top researchers.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in relevant field and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Position Details
- Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
- Salary: £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression to £48,822.
- Grade: 7.
- Contract: Full Time, Fixed Term up to March 2027.
- Closing date: 20th May 2026.
- UK travel may be required.
Background
We are seeking to appoint an autonomous and experienced mixed‑methods researcher. We require a Post‑Doctoral Research Fellow to deliver the process evaluation of the COMbAT Fatigue feasibility study. The study is part of the wider COMbAT Fatigue NIHR‑funded Programme Grant, aiming to co‑produce and evaluate the effectiveness of a self‑management programme for post‑stroke fatigue. The research programme is a collaboration between experts at the Universities of Birmingham, Cambridge and Bournemouth, and clinicians from hospitals, GP practices and community settings in the West Midlands. We have completed the first phase: co‑development of the digital self‑management programme. We are now opening a multi‑site feasibility study to test acceptability and feasibility of the intervention and study design. The role’s aim is to deliver the mixed‑methods process evaluation for the feasibility study.
Role Summary
- Deliver the mixed‑methods process evaluation for the feasibility study.
- Conduct semi‑structured interviews with stroke survivors and clinicians.
- Score intervention adherence using a fidelity checklist.
- Analyse quantitative process data from the web‑based programme.
- Engage in Patient, Public Involvement.
- Write publications.
- Travel may be required to conduct interviews.
- Full‑time position for 11 months.
Main Duties
- Develop research objectives and proposals; mentor if required.
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding.
- Analyse and interpret data.
- Apply knowledge to develop new intellectual understanding.
- Disseminate research findings for publication and seminars.
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods.
- Undertake management/administration arising from research.
- Contribute to departmental and school research‑related activities.
- Support enterprise, business development and public engagement activities.
- Collect research data through various methods, including literature reviews, experiments and interviews.
- Work with Patient and Public Involvement groups.
- Present research outputs, e.g., at seminars and posters.
- Provide guidance to support staff or students assisting with research.
- Deal with problems affecting research objectives and deadlines.
- Promote equality and diversity, fostering an inclusive culture.
Person Specification / Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience
- First degree in area of specialism; normally higher degree relevant to research area or equivalent qualifications.
- High level analytical capability.
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
- Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to develop new ones.
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively.
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes.
- Contribute to planning and organising of research programme or project.
- Coordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication.
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010 and how to actively ensure equal treatment.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and support all individuals, regardless of protected characteristics, to achieve their potential.
Postdoc Research Fellow: Stroke Fatigue Feasibility in Birmingham employer: University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers a dynamic and inclusive work environment, fostering collaboration among leading researchers in the field of sport, exercise, and rehabilitation sciences. As a Postdoc Research Fellow, you will benefit from competitive salary progression, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to contribute to impactful research that addresses real-world health challenges. Located in Edgbaston, Birmingham, you will be part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to innovation and excellence in research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoc Research Fellow: Stroke Fatigue Feasibility in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field, attend relevant conferences, and engage with researchers on social media. You never know who might have a lead on a position or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to stroke research and mixed-methods evaluation. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the research area! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, share your insights on stroke fatigue and how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoc Research Fellow: Stroke Fatigue Feasibility in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Postdoc Research Fellow position. Highlight your mixed-methods research experience and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those related to stroke or fatigue.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your analytical capabilities in action! Be sure to mention specific techniques or methods you’re familiar with, and how you’ve applied them in past research. This will help us understand your fit for the role.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language to communicate your ideas and experiences. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and gets straight to the point.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the COMbAT Fatigue study and its objectives. Familiarise yourself with the mixed-methods approach and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role's requirements.
✨Prepare for Semi-Structured Interviews
Since you'll be conducting interviews with stroke survivors and clinicians, practice your interviewing skills. Think about the types of questions you might ask and how to create a comfortable environment for participants.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your analytical capabilities and how you've applied them in previous research. Highlight any experience you have with quantitative data analysis, especially in relation to process evaluations.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Communication
This role involves working with various stakeholders, so demonstrate your ability to communicate complex information clearly. Share examples of past collaborations and how you’ve engaged with Patient and Public Involvement groups.