Reference:
0279-26
Mental Health Research Group (MHRG)
Lancaster University has a world-class reputation as a centre for excellence in teaching and research. It is in the top 1 per cent of universities in the world and highly ranked in each of the UKs major university league tables. The Division of Health Research (DHR), within Lancaster University’s Faculty of Health and Medicine, is seeking to appoint a Service User Researcher to join the new Mental Health Research Group (MHRG).
Funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), the MHRG will identify local needs and priorities for mental health research in North West England and work alongside residents to develop better care. Four initial research themes aim to tackle inequities in access to effective mental health interventions, particularly for those experiencing multiple disadvantages and/or complex mental health issues, who are often excluded from mainstream services. We will establish a ‘Voices with Impact Hub’ to ensure that lived experience voices are central to the work of the MHRG and that currently underrepresented communities are proactively and fully engaged in mental health research.
We are looking for a full-time Service User Researcher to facilitate the inclusion of lived experiences voices across the MHRG programme. Support, development and mentoring in this role will be provided by experienced lived experience researchers. You will liaise with service users, statutory services, voluntary organisations, academics and clinicians. Experience of mental health services, an interest in research and good interpersonal skills are essential. You will be required to travel across the UK (particularly within North West England) to fulfil their duties. Prior research experience would be desirable.
If you are a self-directed and committed individual with an interest in mental health research and lived experience of mental health services then we welcome your application.
Our team and the Division of Health Research provide a friendly environment that strongly supports the individual needs of each employee and which actively promotes a healthy work-life balance. The Faculty is committed to family-friendly and flexible working policies and has held a Silver Athena SWAN award since 2014 in recognition of its good employment practice undertaken to address gender equality in higher education and research.
The post is available to start July 2026 and we will consider against the business needs of the project flexible working arrangements including condensed hours, days/hours worked and flexible start and finish times. You will join Lancaster University on a fixed term contract; however, the role remains contingent on external funding, which at this time is due to come to an end on 30th June 2031.
Applicants wishing to consider the Skilled Worker Route should ensure they meet the points requirement before applying. Further information can be found on the UK Visas and Immigration website.
For further information on the role and to discuss any aspects of the position, please contact:
Dr Jasper Palmier-Claus: or Professor Steven Jones:
Further Details:
Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based.
Find out what it's like to, including information on our wide range of employee benefits, support networks and our policies and facilities for a family-friendly workplace.
The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues.
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
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