At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct project management, data collection, and analysis for a spinal cord injury exercise programme.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham's School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences.
- Benefits: Starting salary ranges from £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression to £39,906.
- Other info: Full-time, fixed-term contract until November 2027, based in Edgbaston, Birmingham.
- Why this job: Play a central role in innovative research impacting individuals with spinal cord injuries.
- Qualifications: Degree in physiotherapy or related health profession; postgraduate degree desirable.
Full-time, fixed‑term contract up to November 2027. Closing date: 21 June 2026.
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK.
Salary: Starting salary normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906. Grade: Grade 6.
Background: Assist in the research project by carrying out project management, delivery of intervention (virtual, group‑based arm‑crank exercise classes), data collection and analyses from individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), and to create knowledge through providing research support for the project and the research groups.
Role Summary: The post holder will work 5 days per week for 17 months (37.5 hours per week; 100% FTE), with an estimated start date of 1 July, subject to right to work checks, DBS clearance, and permissions to access partner NHS sites. The post holder will play a central role in the successful delivery of research projects evaluating the feasibility and effects of a virtual, group‑based arm‑crank exercise programme for people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). The role will involve project coordination, participant recruitment, qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis, intervention delivery, and day‑to‑day management of study activities. The role requires someone who enjoys working closely with people, has an interest in exercise and physical activity, and is comfortable engaging with participants with neurological conditions in community, home, and online settings. The post holder will conduct research assessments remotely, in participants’ homes, and at NHS or community sites across the UK. They will be expected to be flexible to accommodate participants’ needs for attending the intervention sessions.
Main Duties:
- Collect research data through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews.
- Analyse research data as directed.
- 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:
- A degree or equivalent in physiotherapy, exercise science, rehabilitation, or a related health profession.
- A postgraduate degree in a health‑related subject is desirable.
- Practical experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods, including data collection and analysis involving human participants and clinical populations.
- 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.
- Suitable candidates should have experience of acquiring behavioural data (fitness, questionnaires, focus groups) from human and clinical populations, delivering exercise interventions, and in analysis of the behavioural data with appropriate methods (e.g., statistics, qualitative data analysis).
- Candidates who have a background in physiotherapy or exercise specialists for adults with neurological conditions are particularly welcome to apply for this post.
DBS Required: All successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory DBS clearance before appointment. The University is committed to safeguarding and promotes safe recruitment practice; therefore all associated pre‑employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
Informal enquiries to Dr Shin‑Yi (Chloe) Chiou, email: s.chiou@bham.ac.uk.
Research Associate - School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences - 107517 - Grade 6 employer: University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers a competitive salary and is located in Edgbaston, Birmingham. The School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences focuses on impactful research, fostering an inclusive culture and promoting equality in health-related fields.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences - 107517 - Grade 6
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences - 107517 - Grade 6
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at University of Birmingham.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at University of Birmingham.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to University of Birmingham. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at University of Birmingham. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research University of Birmingham’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
