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 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 be part of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to impactful research on neurodiversity and mental health in law enforcement. With a strong commitment to employee development, the university provides opportunities for professional growth through collaboration with leading experts and access to cutting-edge resources, all set in the vibrant city of Birmingham, known for its rich cultural heritage and supportive community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - School of Psychology - 107497 - Grade 7
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections 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
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio of your research work, including any publications or presentations. This will help you stand out during interviews and give you something tangible to discuss.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your research experience and how it relates to the role. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be just right for you. Don’t hesitate to submit your application and showcase your passion for research in psychology and neurodiversity.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - School of Psychology - 107497 - Grade 7
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in psychology, criminology, or related fields. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise in quantitative research methods!
Showcase Your Research Skills:Since this role involves a lot of research, be sure to emphasise your experience with data collection, statistical analysis, and any software you’re proficient in, like SPSS or R. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their ability to handle complex datasets.
Highlight Collaboration Experience:Collaboration is key in our multidisciplinary team, so share examples of how you've worked with others in academic or professional settings. Whether it’s law enforcement agencies or mental health professionals, we want to know how you’ve contributed to successful project delivery.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our team and projects.
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 previous work, especially any quantitative analyses you've conducted, and how they relate to the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Team's Work
Research the multidisciplinary team you’ll be joining. Understand their projects and how your expertise in psychology and criminology can contribute. This shows your genuine interest and helps you connect your skills to their needs.
✨Prepare for Ethical Discussions
Given the sensitive nature of the research, be prepared to discuss ethical considerations in your work. Familiarise yourself with ethical guidelines related to high-risk groups and be ready to share how you’ve navigated these in past projects.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, practice articulating your ideas clearly and concisely. Consider mock interviews or discussions with peers to refine your ability to engage effectively with both academic and operational audiences.
