At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a vibrant research team to explore mood disorders and sleep in mental health.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a diverse and inclusive institution committed to innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time flexibility, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on mental health research and contribute to innovative solutions.
- Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Position Details
School of Psychology
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Grade: 7
Part Time (30 hours per week)
Fixed Term contract up to October 2026
Closing date: 14th September 2025
UK travel may be required for this role
Background
We are seeking to appoint a Research Fellow to join our active and vibrant mood disorders research group. The post holder will support academic outputs and clinically relevant scientific insights aligned to the NIHR funded, Mental Health Mission Midlands Translational Centre (MHMTC) to conduct original research and work within a growing team of translational researchers. We are offering a part-time position (80%FTE) until October 2026.
The MHMTC is led by Professor Matthew Broome (Institute for Mental Health, and Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust (BWC), and Co-Directed by Professor Steven Marwaha (Institute for Mental Health and Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (BSMHFT).
The aim of the MHMTC is to accelerate regional mental health research capacity and re-engage industry with initial focus on new precision interventions for Early Psychosis (EP) and Mood Disorders within the context of a young, superdiverse, deprived population.
The researcher will contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking activities focusing broadly on mood disorders and sleep as a mechanism of onset, relapse and treatment. The post is suited to candidates with an interest and/or experience in investigating sleep within the context of mood disorders.
The successful candidate will work closely with Professor Marwaha and Dr Isabel Morales-Muñoz, within the Mood Disorders’ theme of the MHMTC.
Role Summary
- Work with the Centre leads and Deputy theme leads to develop and deliver funded objectives, in relation to mood disorders and sleep, primarily.
- Plan and co-ordinate research activities.
- Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids.
- To work towards deliverable outputs and milestones from the Mental Health Mission Midlands Translational Centre.
- Plan and publish high quality research, supported in this by the Centre Leads and Deputy leads.
- Conduct secondary data analyses. Expertise in big data would be valuable as well as advanced quantitative skills; and experience with secondary data analyses are required.
- Recruitment of people with treatment resistant depression to the Midlands digital platform deeply phenotyping this population.
- Data collection and administration of research schedules recruited to the data platform.
- Contribute to (and potentially lead) the development of new interventions for mood disorders.
- Assist in the development and conduct of experimental medicine studies for people with mood disorders.
- Take part in the Mood disorders theme group meetings.
- Project manage research activities, and/or supervise other research staff.
- Present findings in high quality publications and conference proceedings.
- Develop novel methodologies and techniques appropriate to the type of research being pursued.
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results.
- Contribute to generating funding.
- Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar.
Main Duties
The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Analyse and interpret data
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Undertake management/administration arising from research
- Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
- Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
- 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
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
- Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.
Person Specification
- PhD completed or close to completion in a relevant subject area
- High level analytical capability
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly
- Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
- Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
- 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
- Requirement for DBS, Occupational Health Check and awareness of the Data Protection Act (DPA)
OH and DBS required
The University is committed to safeguarding and we promote safe recruitment practice, therefore all associated pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. Due to the nature of the work undertaken in this role all successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory Occupational Health and DBS clearance prior to appointment.
Informal enquiries to Shahara Choudhry, email: s.h.choudhry@bham.ac.uk
We believe there is no such thing as a \'typical\' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyoneon our website.
Research Fellow (Mental Health Mood Disorders and Sleep) - School of Psychology - 106262 - Grade 7 in Birmingham employer: University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers an exceptional work environment for the Research Fellow position, fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation within its School of Psychology. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to contribute to impactful research in mental health, all while being part of a vibrant academic community in the heart of Birmingham. With a commitment to diversity and sustainability, the university ensures that every staff member can thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow (Mental Health Mood Disorders and Sleep) - School of Psychology - 106262 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
✨Utilise University Networks
Let’s make the most of those university psych societies! Engage with fellow students and professors, as they often have insider info about part-time roles in the field of psychology. Plus, don’t forget to tap into career fairs – local organisations are always on the lookout for fresh talent!
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow (Mental Health Mood Disorders and Sleep) - School of Psychology - 106262 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a part-time role in psychology, make sure to showcase any relevant experience you’ve got. This could be placements, volunteer work, or even insightful coursework. Show us how your background has prepared you for this specific position at University of Birmingham!
Demonstrate Your Communication Skills:Communication is key in psychology! Use your CV and cover letter to illustrate how you’ve effectively communicated complex ideas or worked with diverse groups. This could be through presentations, group projects, or any mentoring roles you've held—let us see those skills shine!
Tailor Your Personal Statement:In your cover letter, don’t just tell us why you want this role at University of Birmingham; dive into your passion for psychology! Mention specific areas of interest or any unique insights you've gained during your studies that relate to what we do. This shows us that you’re not just looking for any part-time job, but that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact.
Keep Your Availability Clear:Since this is a part-time position, it's super important to be transparent about your availability. In your application, include the days and times you're free to work. This helps us understand how well you can fit into our team at University of Birmingham—and makes scheduling a breeze!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Show Off Your Understanding of Psychological Concepts
When chatting with University of Birmingham, make sure to highlight your grasp of key psychological theories and frameworks. Be ready to discuss their application in real-world scenarios, perhaps how you've tackled cases during your studies or placements. This is your chance to show them you're not just book-smart but also practical!
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In psychology roles, especially part-time gigs, you might face some role-plays or case study scenarios during the interview. Don't shy away from demonstrating your thought process! Practicing your responses to hypothetical situations can help showcase your analytical skills and empathy, which are crucial in this field.
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Since this role is part-time, it’s essential to be upfront about your availability. Highlight any flexibility you have during certain days or hours, as this can be a big plus for University of Birmingham. Showing that you're adaptable will signal that you’re keen to fit in with their schedule.
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Demonstrating genuine interest in University of Birmingham will set you apart! Come prepared with questions about their therapy methods, client demographics, or team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if their values align with your own – a win-win situation!
