Postdoctoral Research Associate

About the role

You are invited to apply for the role of Postdoctoral Research Associate to work with one of our research projects funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).

Screening tests for illnesses like breast, bowel, cervical cancer, and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) can save lives. However, individuals from ethnic minority groups, particularly Black African and Caribbean people, have been found to participate less in these screenings. This means that Black African and Caribbean people may be more likely to discover illnesses too late for optimal treatment. We are conducting a randomised feasibility trial to investigate the feasibility, effectiveness and implementation of a co-designed, faith-based and peer-led intervention to improve breast, bowel, cervical and AAA screening uptake among Black African and Caribbean communities in the UK. The aim is to improve screening uptake within these communities.

Supported by the research team, the post-holder will manage all aspects of the research, including intervention delivery, data collection, data analysis and data dissemination.

This is a full-time, campus-based (Sunderland) role for 24 months, starting on the 1^st of March 2025.

What you can bring 

You will have a PhD (or be near completion) in public health or a related field within social sciences (e.g. health psychology, sociology, anthropology), excluding lab-based biomedical sciences. You will have extensive experience in relevant health research, particularly feasibility studies or clinical trials, and possibly regarding cancer, screening and/or health inequalities. You will ideally have both quantitative and qualitative research skills. You will be self-motivated and able to work independently, but you will also be a team player. You are a good communicator and able to present information on research progress and outcomes to different audiences.

You will be working with an exciting team from multiple institutions, including national and international, academic, clinical and community organisations. As Research Associate you will be a key member of the team. The project is led by Dr Floor Christie-de Jong from the University of Sunderland and Dr Judith Eberhardt from Teesside University.

What we can offer you 

Our University is not just a place of academic excellence, but also a community that embraces inclusivity and support. We value our staff and offer a rewarding package that goes beyond just salary. At the University of Sunderland, we prioritise not only your professional growth but also your happiness and well-being.

• Enjoy a generous annual leave entitlement of 36 days, along with an additional 5 closure days over the Christmas break and 8 Bank Holidays. 
• Enrolment into our pension scheme, ensuring your financial security for the future. 
• Access to our “My Lifestyle Benefits Platform”, where you can enjoy online discounts at hundreds of retailers every day. Plus, take advantage of exclusive schemes that allow you to purchase a new car, bike, or technology at a discounted rate. 
• Your health and well-being are important to us. That's why we provide access to discounted private medical insurance, health cash plans, and guidance on financial well-being.
• Maintaining an active lifestyle is made easy with discounted membership for CitySpace Fitness, our state-of-the-art facility for sports and social activities. 

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 26^th February.

Interviews will likely be held on Monday 3^rd February. 

For an informal chat about the role please contact: floor.christie@sunderland.ac.uk

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