At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful mental health research and develop strategies for effective interventions.
- Company: Join Wellcome Trust, a global leader in health improvement and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and influential partners for meaningful impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health outcomes across the UK.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in psychosocial interventions and strategic project management.
The predicted salary is between 66480 - 83100 £ per year.
The Wellcome Trust is a global charitable foundation. We improve health for everyone by funding science, leading policy and advocacy campaigns, and building partnerships. We are committed to spend £16bn in the ten years to 2032, funding new discoveries in life, health, and wellbeing, and taking on three global health challenges: mental health, infectious disease and climate and health.
We are looking for a Research Lead to join the Mental Health Team – on a Fixed Term Contract (end Date: December 2027).
The role will support the Mental Health team to increase the impact of its portfolio of psychological and social interventions in the UK. The postholder will develop a strong understanding of the evidence, delivery models and systems needed to make effective interventions available to people who could benefit from them, and work with researchers, health systems and other partners to identify and support pathways to adoption, implementation and scale.
What will I be doing?
- The role will take a portfolio perspective, helping Wellcome understand where barriers to access and uptake exist, what is needed to overcome them, and where Wellcome can add value beyond research funding.
- This will include supporting the development and management of existing and new investments, building relationships with relevant UK partners, and identifying opportunities for collaboration, implementation and further evidence generation.
- As a Research Lead, Mental Health, you will:
- Develop a strong understanding of Wellcome’s psychological and social intervention portfolio in the UK and the evidence, delivery models and populations it covers.
- Identify the key barriers to access, adoption, implementation and scale of promising psychological and social interventions, including workforce, commissioning, delivery, regulatory and system barriers.
- Work with grant holders and relevant NHS, government, academic and third-sector partners to develop realistic pathways from research to impact.
- Support Wellcome's existing and new investments to maximise their potential for impact, including helping teams think through implementation and uptake from an early stage.
- Build knowledge and relationships across the UK mental health system to understand where Wellcome can best contribute to improving access to effective psychosocial interventions.
- Contribute to wider Mental Health strategy and portfolio management, bringing insight from the UK into decisions about future investment and priorities.
Is this job for me?
Are you passionate about improving mental health outcomes in the UK and excited by the opportunity to contribute to Wellcome's mission? This role is ideal for someone with significant experience in mental health and psychosocial interventions, who enjoys leading complex strategic initiatives, building influential partnerships, and working across multidisciplinary teams to deliver meaningful impact. You'll thrive in this role if you're comfortable managing multiple priorities, navigating ambiguity, influencing senior stakeholders, and turning ambitious ideas into results through collaboration, innovation and excellent delivery.
To apply for this role please submit an updated CV and answer 2 application questions to demonstrate that you meet the minimum requirements for the role.
Minimum Criteria:
- Proven significant experience and knowledge of psychosocial interventions and innovation for mental health with a UK focus.
- Experience of setting up and delivering high profile, strategic initiatives with multi-disciplinary teams at a variety of scales.
- Experience of managing projects and/or people across different areas of expertise.
Application Questions:
- Using examples please provide evidence to demonstrate that you meet the minimum criteria for this role as outlined in the job description? (Up to 500 words)
- Using short summaries please provide specific details of up to two different initiatives or projects you have been directly involved in that are relevant to this role. For each initiative or project please use up to 250 words to describe your role (e.g. team leader, team member), the purpose of the activity (i.e. its aims), and the major contributions you personally made.
You can view the full job description on our website. You can read more about the benefits we offer our employees on our website.
Our Hybrid Way of Working
We understand that our colleagues have commitments and personal interests outside of work and we strive to build a flexible working environment, in which people can perform at their best. At Wellcome we have a hybrid way of working which is 3 days in our Euston Road offices (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) with the remaining 2 days working either remotely or in the office.
Diversity and Inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. Diversity and Inclusion is a priority at Wellcome. We are committed to cultivating a fair and inclusive environment, where everyone can be themselves and thrive. We are happy to discuss flexible working options for all roles. We work to ensure that our recruitment processes are as inclusive as possible to everyone. This includes making adjustments for people who have a disability or long-term condition. Please visit our website for more information on adjustments and accessibility, or contact us at jobs@wellcome.org.
Research Lead, Mental Health in London employer: Wellcome
Wellcome is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to global health initiatives while working in a flexible and inclusive environment. As a Treasury Operations Analyst, you will enjoy a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance, alongside professional development opportunities within a purpose-driven organisation dedicated to improving health for everyone. With a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, Wellcome fosters a culture where every employee can thrive and make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Lead, Mental Health in London
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like Wellcome.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
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Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at Wellcome.
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Lead, Mental Health in London
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 Wellcome.
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 Wellcome.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Wellcome. 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 Wellcome. 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 Wellcome
✨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 Wellcome’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!
