Research Associate (0.4 FTE)

£15,922 per annum based on 0.4 FTE (full-time equivalent salary of £39,807)

Part Time, Fixed Term Contract until 30/03/2026

Hybrid (mostly online, possibly some meetings in London)

The Health Sciences University (HSU: formerly AECC University College) is a specialist health sciences institution dedicated to excellent education, clinical care and applied research.

Following the recent approval of our new university title HSU in July 2024 and the merger of the University College of Osteopathy into the HSU family from 1st August 2024, the institution is in a phase of growth and transformation across our campuses in Bournemouth and central London.

We are highly values-driven, inspired by our mission to ‘create a healthier society through education, research and clinical care’ with highly dedicated and capable staff and students working together within a caring and inclusive community. We are part-way through the delivery of our Strategic Plan 2021-2026, entitled Fit for the Future, which we will refresh in the coming weeks to reflect recent institutional changes.

HSU delivers a diverse and growing portfolio of pre- and post-registration academic provision and research in allied health and related disciplines, and substantial CQC-registered clinical and imaging services delivering high-quality care for our staff, students and local communities. These facilities create a unique offering in higher education for our students to gain valuable practice learning experience onsite, to support local and regional NHS partners, and provide a data-rich research environment for our students, staff and partners.

Partnership working sits at the heart of what we do as an agile and collaborative higher education provider and clinical provider, responding to the workforce, educational and clinical needs of our external stakeholders, and supporting our communities as an established anchor institution. As we continue to develop in Dorset and London, it is imperative that we develop a more strategically informed approach to partnership working as a multi-professional centre of excellence for healthcare education, clinical care and research locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

We provide a vibrant and positive inter-professional learning and practice environment, within a caring and inclusive community.

About the role

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our international research team for a 12-month, part-time role as Research Associate.

The OsMoSys (Osteopathic Models Synthesis) project is a collaborative international research initiative funded by the Osteopathic Foundation (oF) and Swiss Osteopathic Science Foundation. The project aims to explore and enhance osteopathic education by examining theoretical models and concepts taught to students, with a focus on understanding how these models are implemented in education and practice.

The Research Associate will be responsible for conducting survey research to understand how osteopathic models are taught and implemented in practice.

Key tasks include:

1. Reviewing existing education documents and literature to compile a comprehensive list of osteopathic models
2. Gathering feedback from course leaders internationally to ensure completeness of the models list
3. Developing and conducting online surveys with educators and practitioners
4. Analysing survey data on the implementation of models in education and practice
5. Contributing to the development of an open-access report and academic publication
6. Supporting the dissemination of findings through conferences and presentations
7. Collaborating with an international team of researchers and educators

About the person

• A degree in osteopathy
• Resident in the UK
• An interest in osteopathic education and research
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including preliminary experience with academic writing (at least at BSc level)
• Some familiarity with osteopathic models and concepts taught in undergraduate education
• Experience with or willingness to learn survey methodology
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of an international team
• Strong digital literacy and familiarity with online survey tools

Applicants must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum & Nationality Act 2006.

Benefits

• Competitive pension
• Generous annual leave entitlement
• Staff development events

And many more

Contact

For an informal discussion, please contact the People Department at peoplehelpdesk@aecc.ac.uk

To apply, please view the job description and person specification here. Completed application forms should be submitted by midnight on the closing date. Please note that CVs will not be considered as a substitute for a complete application form.

Closing date: Sunday 2^nd March 2025

Interviews: Wednesday 12^th & Thursday 13^th March, afternoon

We value diversity and inclusion at HSU and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are a committed to having a diverse and inclusive culture which offers equality and opportunity for all. We operate Disability Confident and Mindful Employer schemes and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.