At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the SIGNAL-BREAST project and conduct impactful health services research.
- Company: Join a top 5 UK university renowned for world-leading research.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, career development opportunities, and a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Open-ended contract with fixed funding until June 2027.
- Why this job: Make a difference in breast cancer treatment and contribute to international research priorities.
- Qualifications: PhD in health services research and experience in qualitative and quantitative methodologies.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
We are seeking a highly motivated, experienced health services researcher to work on the SIGNAL-BREAST project which aims to agree the international research priorities for locoregional breast cancer treatment. The project is co-led by Professor Shelley Potter (University of Bristol, UoB) and Professor Stuart McIntosh (Queen’s University Belfast, QUB) and will be based within the newly formed BEACON (Breast Cancer Evidence, Advancement and Optimisation Network) Group, a collaboration between UoB and QUB. BEACON hosts a portfolio of research focused on improving treatment personalisation to reduce treatment associated morbidity and improve outcomes for patients with breast cancer. The SIGNAL-BREAST project is an international collaboration of breast cancer research groups funded by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Funding is available at 0.8FTE for 12 months to deliver the project. The role will be based in the Department of Clinical Sciences at the Learning and Research Building, Southmead Hospital with a requirement to be on campus at least one day per week.
The University of Bristol is a top 5 UK university for research quality (REF 2021) with 94% of its research classed as world-leading or internationally excellent. Career development is supported through the University’s extensive training programmes, including the Bristol Medical School Short Courses Programme.
What will you be doing?
- Coordinate, oversee and deliver the SIGNAL-BREAST project, under the general guidance of the BEACON co-leads.
- Determine and deploy appropriate methodologies (e.g. quantitative, qualitative, systematic reviews) for designing and conducting the international consensus process and analysing and summarising data, with advice and support from the study leads.
- Contribute to preparing study reports for review bodies and funders, write up own research work for publication and/or contribute as a team member to larger publications, present research findings, e.g. at conferences, study meetings.
- Complete appropriate procedures to obtain relevant ethical and governance approvals and permissions.
- Undertake any other duties as requested by the BEACON co-leads.
You should apply if:
- The ideal candidate will have the following:
- A PhD or equivalent in health services research or equivalent.
- Experience in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies including systematic reviews.
- Experience designing and delivering consensus processes.
- Experience of large-scale research project management.
- Excellent communication and time-management skills.
- Experience of coordinating patient and public involvement and engagement activities.
- An interest in breast cancer research and experience of international collaborations would be desirable.
Additional information:
- Contract type: Open ended with fixed funding until 30/06/2027.
- Work pattern: 85% time / 0.85fte (29.75 hours per week).
- Grade: K.
- School/Unit: Bristol Medical School.
This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 09/08/2026. For informal queries please contact: Professor Shelley Potter (Professor of Surgical Oncology) at Shelley.potter@bristol.ac.uk.
Research Fellow in Health Services Research employer: University of Bristol
Join our award-winning university health service as a Nurse Practitioner, where you will be part of a close-knit and supportive primary care team dedicated to the well-being of our diverse student population. Enjoy a collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth, with opportunities to engage in evidence-based patient care in a beautiful, purpose-built practice. We value your expertise and enthusiasm for working with young people, offering a fulfilling environment that prioritises both personal and professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Health Services Research
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Health Services Research
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 Bristol.
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 Bristol.
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 Bristol. 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 Bristol. 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 Bristol
✨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 Bristol’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!
