About the role We have an exciting opportunity to join a major NIHR-funded study, focused on exploring what works and what doesn't - in the care of people at the end of life. Learn more about the project here: NIHR Award Details. The study is led by Associate Professor Susie Pearce, who will also be your line manager, at the University of Plymouth (UoP). It is delivered in collaboration with partners across universities, NHS organisations, and health and care providers in Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. Using a participatory realist approach, the project is structured around four work packages. This position will primarily contribute to Work Package 1, which involves conducting in-depth qualitative case studies in rural and coastal health and care settings. Activities will include interviews, observations, and focus groups to explore what enables-or hinders-high-quality end-of-life care in different communities. You will contribute to fieldwork, support analysis, and help write academic and stakeholder-facing outputs. We particularly welcome applications from researchers with experience conducting studies in sensitive or complex areas and working with vulnerable populations. You will be working closely with the wider research team and local partners. Responsibilities include supporting data collection, analysis, and dissemination of findings. This role will require an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Check plus a Adult's Barred List check. For an informal online discussion about the role please contact Susie Pearce - susie pearce@plymouth.ac.uk Location and Travel The role is based at Intercity Place, University of Plymouth, with fieldwork across Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. A hybrid working pattern (online and in-person) can be discussed and requests for part time working will be considered. Regular travel to Plymouth and to regional health and care providers will be required, and some locations may not be accessible by public transport. What we're looking for We are seeking a talented post-doctoral researcher with strong qualitative research skills and experience working in health or care settings. Familiarity with participatory approaches and/or realist evaluation would be an advantage You Must Also Have The Following Postgraduate degree at PhD level in healthcare or related subject area such as social science research. Proven ability to plan and undertake periods of unsupervised data collection and analysis in a timely manner according to project deadlines. An established expertise and proven portfolio of research within the following research fields: Qualitative methods. Handling of potentially sensitive data and data generation techniques. Evidence of undertaking research and building collaborations within the NHS or other contexts (e.g. non-health industries, 3rd sector organisations, government departments). Proven ability to publish in national and international peer reviewed journals. For more information about the role and the person specification, please refer to the job description. About us The University of Plymouth has a strong interdisciplinary research ethos which is supported by our two strategic Research Institutes; the Marine Institute and the Sustainable Earth Institute. As a member of our academic community, you'll be expected to contribute to our recognised research strengths. Working holistically across the University, you will be challenged to innovate, collaborate and deliver impactful research contributions as part of a systems thinking approach to addressing today's global challenges. The Faculty of Health holds four Silver Athena Swan awards, which recognise our commitment to supporting gender equality within higher education. The School of Nursing and Midwifery works in partnership with local NHS trusts and other health care providers to drive forward clinical research and support students in their learning to become the best nurses and midwives they can be. An interdisciplinary approach to research covers, health services and delivery research, digital technologies, workforce research, and how knowledge is translated into practice and policy. Application Process Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement. Following the closing date of the vacancy, you will be notified on the outcome of your application in due course. Anticipated Interview Date: Interviews will likely to take place on 18 December 2025 via Microsoft Teams. Our Offer Staff appointed within the Faculty of Health may be able to join the NHS pension scheme subject to eligibility criteria. When Joining Us, You Will Receive Generous annual leave : 35 Days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays & Closure Days Generous pension scheme Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme Employee Assistance Programme Development opportunities Enhanced family leave Flexible working Retailer discounts On-site nursery A summary of our comprehensive benefits can be viewed here. Additional Information The University of Plymouth is an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed regardless of their background. To find out more about our inclusive community initiatives, such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter, please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages. We particularly welcome applicants from under-represented communities at the University of Plymouth, such as carers/parents, people with disabilities, ethnically diverse, LGBT, and people from all socio-economic backgrounds.