At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct impactful research on neurodivergent personnel in law enforcement and analyse data.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a leading institution in psychology and research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, fixed-term contract, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a multidisciplinary team and contribute to meaningful research outcomes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health and support for law enforcement professionals.
- Qualifications: PhD in psychology or related field, with expertise in quantitative research methods.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 36636 £ per year.
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7, salary £36,636. Grade: 7 Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to April 2028
Closing date: 14th June 2026
Background
Police and law enforcement personnel are routinely exposed to distressing material as part of their roles, particularly when supporting investigations into serious crimes such as sexual violence, child exploitation, and terrorism. Evidence from high-risk sectors indicates that repeated exposure can negatively affect wellbeing, as well as personal and social functioning, particularly under conditions of high workload and time pressure. Neurodivergent professionals (e.g., autistic individuals and those with ADHD, dyslexia, or dyspraxia) may be particularly affected due to differences in emotional processing and sensory sensitivity, alongside strengths such as strong attention to detail.
Role Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated post-doc researcher to join our multidisciplinary team on this project exploring risk and protective factors for distress in neurodivergent personnel. The role involves conducting quantitative and qualitative analyses, with opportunities to contribute to the translation of findings into practical guidance for organisations.
- Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids
- Operate within area of specialism
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results
Main Duties
- Lead the design, implementation, and analysis of quantitative research, including surveys, data collection, and statistical analysis.
- Collaborate with law enforcement agencies, academic researchers, and mental health professionals to support effective project delivery.
- Conduct literature reviews and contribute to project reports and academic publications.
- Ensure adherence to ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements, particularly when working with high-risk groups.
- Contribute to dissemination of findings through conferences, workshops, and academic outputs.
- Prepare reports for funders and other key stakeholders.
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines.
- Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews.
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters.
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research.
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding.
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods.
Person Specification
- A PhD (or near to completion) in psychology, criminology, or a related discipline, with a focus on mental health, trauma, neurodiversity, or a closely related area.
- Strong expertise in quantitative research methods, including advanced statistical analysis and proficiency in software such as SPSS, R, or equivalent tools.
- Proven experience in designing, managing, and analysing complex datasets to answer comparison research questions.
- A solid understanding of law enforcement contexts and the psychological impact of exposure to distressing material.
- Strong project management skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with academic, operational, and practitioner stakeholders.
- Experience of academic publication or research dissemination is desirable.
Equality Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and committed to providing a fair and inclusive workplace for all staff.
Research Fellow - School of Psychology - 107497 - Grade 7 in England employer: University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers a dynamic and inclusive work environment for the Research Fellow position within the School of Psychology, where you will engage in meaningful research that directly impacts the wellbeing of neurodivergent personnel in law enforcement. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to various growth opportunities, collaborative projects, and the chance to contribute to significant academic publications, all while being part of a vibrant academic community in the heart of Birmingham.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - School of Psychology - 107497 - Grade 7 in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in academia and law enforcement. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet potential collaborators or employers. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your research skills! Prepare a portfolio of your previous work, including any publications or presentations. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your expertise in quantitative research methods.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you, focusing on questions related to your experience in psychology and neurodiversity. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - School of Psychology - 107497 - Grade 7 in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Fellow position. Highlight your relevant experience in psychology, criminology, or related fields, and showcase your expertise in quantitative research methods. We want to see how your skills align with our project goals!
Showcase Your Research Skills:In your application, emphasise your experience with data collection, statistical analysis, and literature reviews. Mention any specific software you’re proficient in, like SPSS or R, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle complex datasets effectively.
Communicate Clearly:Use clear and concise language in your written application. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Remember, you’re not just showcasing your qualifications; you’re also demonstrating your communication skills, which are crucial for this role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that your application is processed correctly and gives us a chance to review your materials thoroughly. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and the project’s focus on neurodiversity and mental health. Be ready to discuss your methodologies, findings, and how they relate to the role. This shows your passion and expertise!
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Team's Work
Take some time to look into the multidisciplinary team you’ll be joining. Understanding their previous projects and how they collaborate can help you articulate how you can contribute effectively. It’s all about showing you’re a team player!
✨Prepare for Ethical Discussions
Given the sensitive nature of the research, be prepared to discuss ethical considerations and how you would handle them. This demonstrates your awareness of the responsibilities that come with working in high-risk areas.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves engaging with various stakeholders, practice explaining your research in simple terms. Being able to communicate complex ideas clearly will set you apart and show you can bridge the gap between academia and practice.
