Research Associate - Department of Applied Health Sciences - 107485 - Grade 6 in Birmingham

Position Details

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 £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906. Grade: 6. Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to August 2027. Closing date: 16th June 2026.

We are seeking to appoint one candidate at either Grade 6 (Research Associate) or Grade 7 (Research Fellow I). Funding is for a maximum of 12 months, from 1 September 2026.

Background

To assist in research (by carrying out data collection and analyses) to create knowledge through providing research support for an established research project. We are seeking a health economist to undertake economic analysis for the project: "The effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Snacktivity™, an intervention to promote physical activity and health outcomes: A multi‑centre randomised controlled trial." The population has become less physically active and more sedentary, yet there is compelling evidence that inactivity and high levels of sitting are both independently associated with poorer health and mortality.

Snacktivity™ is a novel approach that focuses on encouraging the public to accumulate ≥150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity (MVPA) per/week and completion of muscle‑strengthening activities twice per/week by promoting frequent ‘activity snacks’. By focusing on completion of small bouts of physical activity, Snacktivity™ may help to develop people’s confidence to become physically active, and then to maintain participation. The aim of the Snacktivity™ trial is to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Snacktivity™ to promote physical activity and reduce future risk of disease in the population, compared with usual care (current guidance for physical activity).

Role Summary

• Work within the Snacktivity research grant
• Operate within area of specialism (health economics)
• Contribute to publications from the Snacktivity research project

Main Duties

• Identify data on costs using sources such as PSSRU Unit Costs of Health & Social Care
• Analyse research data (on costs and outcomes) as directed, as part of the Snacktivity research project
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods
• Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research
• Promote equality and value diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification

• Degree or equivalent in relevant subject area (health economics)
• Practical experience of applying the relevant health economics skills and techniques (trial-based economic evaluation)
• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively
• Ability to access and organise resources successfully
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
• Formal training and/or previous experience relating to cost‑utility analysis
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team, evidenced through previous experience.

Further particulars can be found here. Informal enquiries to Phil Kinghorn, email.

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