Researcher in Public Health

Contract Type: Fixed Term until 28/02/2027

About the College/Department

The College of Health, Psychology and Social Care has a clear vision – to make a REAL difference to the lives of individuals, families and communities within our region. To be the University of choice for our Health and Social Care partners’ education needs across the region; and to provide an excellent student experience, delivered by highly credible and well qualified lecturers and researchers.

The school of Allied Health and Social Care sits within the College of Health, Psychology and Social Care. Our school embraces the professions associated with Occupational Therapy, Diagnostic Imaging and Social and Community Studies. We have a very experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic group of academics and professionals who work with students to ensure they have a positive experience as a student and prepare them for their chosen profession in the best possible way.

About the Role

We are seeking to appoint a Researcher in Public Health to lead a collaborative research programme in Derby and the wider Derbyshire area on the socioeconomic determinants of health inequalities and their impact on non-communicable diseases. Our strategic aim is to conduct excellent, multidisciplinary research at the intersection of two growing areas of public health priority.

The programme involves multisectoral collaboration with regional, national and international organisations. The example of the local stakeholders includes the University of Derby's School of Allied Health and Social Care, the Derbyshire NHS Integrated Care System, Derby City Local Authority, Derbyshire County Council, and Derbyshire Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise.

Our target populations include underserved populations living in poverty and minoritised groups facing issues related to substance misuse, mental health disorders, and homelessness. The collaboration aims to how socioeconomic factors such as access to health and social services, income levels, social deprivation, affordable housing, education, and environmental conditions influence non-communicable diseases prioritised in UK public health. Additionally, we will also examine behavioural factors such as gambling, alcohol, and drug addiction, as well as adverse childhood experiences. 

The anticipated interview date is Thursday 1st May 2025.

About You

To succeed in this role, you should have proven experience leading research on public health issues that affect vulnerable populations. A strong understanding of various research methodologies and techniques relevant to public health is essential. Additionally, you should have experience in conducting impactful research and developing innovative public health interventions specifically for underserved communities. 

You will be expected to collaborate across multiple disciplines to effectively address challenges related to population health. A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion is crucial, along with active efforts to confront potential biases. Lastly, candidates should demonstrate the ability to work independently while consistently delivering high-quality results on time.

Key Contact

For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Professor Mzwandile Mahala, Professor of Public Health via m.mabhala@derby.ac.uk.

For enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@derby.ac.uk.

For more information and to apply on-line, please click the above “Apply” button.

Advert Closes: 13/4/25

Advert information