Postdoc Research Fellow: Stroke Fatigue Feasibility

Postdoc Research Fellow: Stroke Fatigue Feasibility

Full-Time 36636 - 46049 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
University of Birmingham

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Conduct mixed-methods research on post-stroke fatigue and engage with patients and clinicians.
  • Company: Join the University of Birmingham's innovative research team in a collaborative environment.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for impactful research.
  • Other info: Full-time role with potential for travel and excellent career growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in stroke recovery while advancing your research career.
  • Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in relevant field and strong analytical skills required.

The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.

Position Details

School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences

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 employer: University of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham offers an exceptional work environment for the Postdoc Research Fellow role, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within the School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences. With competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development, employees are encouraged to engage in impactful research that contributes to real-world health solutions. Located in the vibrant Edgbaston area, the university provides access to a diverse community and resources that enhance both personal and professional growth.

University of Birmingham

Contact Details:

University of Birmingham Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Postdoc Research Fellow: Stroke Fatigue Feasibility

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. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.

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 subject! When you get the chance to speak about your previous research or projects, let your enthusiasm shine through. We want to see how committed you are to making a difference in stroke fatigue research.

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 follow the process we’ve set up.

We think you need these skills to ace Postdoc Research Fellow: Stroke Fatigue Feasibility

Mixed-Methods Research
Process Evaluation
Semi-Structured Interviews
Quantitative Data Analysis
Patient and Public Involvement
Research Proposal Development
Research Funding Bids

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 applicants who can convey complex information simply, so don’t overcomplicate things!

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive your materials directly and can review them promptly. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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, especially in conducting semi-structured interviews and analysing data.

Prepare for Practical Scenarios

Think about potential challenges you might face while delivering the process evaluation. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle issues related to participant engagement or data collection, showcasing your problem-solving skills and adaptability.

Showcase Your Communication Skills

Since the role involves communicating complex information clearly, practice articulating your past research experiences. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to convey findings effectively, whether in writing or during presentations.

Emphasise Collaboration and Inclusivity

Highlight your experience working in collaborative environments, especially with diverse groups. Discuss how you’ve engaged with Patient and Public Involvement groups in the past and your commitment to promoting equality and diversity in research settings.