The University of Plymouth is seeking an experienced, strategically minded Senior Research Fellow to play a leading role in an ambitious NIHR-funded mental health research programme designed to strengthen research capacity and capability across the South West Peninsula, a region facing high and complex mental health needs.
About the role
Working at the intersection of research and real-world implementation, you will lead integrated knowledge-mobilisation activities, co-produce evidence with partners and people with lived experience, and help ensure that insights are meaningfully embedded in practice, policy, and service innovation.
In collaboration with King’s College London and the University of Exeter, you will contribute to a broad “system balance” research theme aimed at improving equity and sustainability in mental health care systems, using creative and participatory approaches to shape how new evidence informs system change.
In this role, you will
* Plan and deliver original, innovative research independently and collaboratively with colleagues across institutions.
* deliver research aligned with University and School priorities,
* will contribute to leadership and engagement activities
* Identify funding sources and secure grants to support and grow the research programme.
* Develop and apply research methodologies that advance understanding in the field.
* Disseminate high-quality research findings through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and other relevant platforms.
* Support collaboration and co-production with people with lived experience.
* Lead a research team and mentor junior colleagues and postgraduate researchers.
* Provide expert advice and supervision within your area of specialism.
You may also have opportunities to support research-informed teaching. We are committed to supporting your career development, with dedicated time for fellowship and grant applications, opportunities to present at national and international conferences, and access to a structured development programme for mid-career researchers.
For an informal conversation and a closer look at what the role involves, you are encouraged contact Richard Byng at
This is a part-time position working 29.6 hours per week, starting on 1 April 2026 with an expected end date of 31 March 2031. This is due to the nature of the project and funding.
What we’re looking for
You will hold a PhD (or equivalent international qualification or recognition) in a relevant discipline and bring in-depth subject knowledge, such as psychology, psychiatry, social science, health services, or applied health research methods, sufficient to drive innovation and generate new understanding.
You will also have experience of working alongside individuals with lived experience of mental health issues.
If you’re driven by meaningful health research and excited about the chance to create real, lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you.
For more information about the job and the person specification, please refer to the job description.
About Us
Joining the Community and Primary Care Research Centre (CPCRC) within the Faculty of Health, you will become part of a warm, collaborative, and growing research community with strong partnerships across the University, PenARC, NHS Trusts, third-sector organisations, and the Health Innovation Network, all united by a commitment to improving mental health care and maintaining a healthy, sustainable work–life balance.
About Plymouth
Plymouth offers an extraordinary environment for both research and living. As a city with a richly diverse population and strong regional partnerships, it provides unique opportunities to engage with communities whose experiences and needs are central to advancing impactful applied health research.
Beyond its academic strengths, Plymouth is an inspiring place to call home: from the dramatic landscapes of Dartmoor to the iconic Hoe overlooking Plymouth Sound, to miles of beautiful coastline and beaches perfect for walking, swimming, or simply unwinding. With its vibrant cultural scene, welcoming neighbourhoods, and easy access to some of the South West’s most breathtaking natural spaces, Plymouth offers an outstanding quality of life alongside a thriving research ecosystem.
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: Friday 23 January 2026 (in person)
Our Offer
A successful external candidate for this position would be employed by the University of Plymouth Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of Plymouth. Employees of the University of Plymouth Services Limited work alongside the University of Plymouth colleagues in delivery of Plymouth’s strategic vision, and will adopt the University of Plymouth’s HR policies and procedures in full unless otherwise stated.
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 .
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 .