Description Position Details School of Psychology Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906. As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 6, salary £33,002. Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to November 2027 Closing date: 8th April 2026 UK travel may be required for this role Background To assist in research (by carrying out data collection or analyses) to create knowledge through providing research support for projects and research groups. We are seeking a highly motivated and proactive Research Associate (RA) to work on the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) funded SNAPPER trial, based at the University of Birmingham (UoB). The study aim is to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of stimulant (Lisdexamfetamine) compared with non-stimulant (Atomoxetine) medication for adults (aged 18 and over) with ADHD and a history of either bipolar disorder or psychosis. Further details can be found here: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/bctu/trials/pd/snapper The trial is ongoing having recruited to approximately half its recruitment target. Working with the research team based in the University of Birmingham including another RA, the post holder(s) will have the skills to undertake and lead study recruitment of patients in Birmingham, undertake quantitative data collection (structured research interviews with patients), undertake quality assurance processes, and play a key role in delivering the SNAPPER Trial to time and to target. Role Summary The post holder will join the SNAPPER trial team and assist with recruitment and data collection. The post holder must have excellent inter-personal skills and be able to support a multi-disciplinary (clinical or non-clinical) research team to ensure research is set up, participants are recruited and followed-up, and the research is delivered and conducted to a high standard. They will join and be supported by the Mood Disorders research group, led by Professor Steven Marwaha. The work of the group is focused on epidemiology, and intervention development and testing to improve the outcomes of people with depression and bipolar disorder. Experience in these areas will be an asset. The post holder will operate within The RA will oversee and ensure the collection and monitoring of data and assist in the preparation of publications. The successful candidate(s) will work closely with Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit (BCTU), and Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Trust (BSMHT) and help to deliver this national multi-site trial funded by the NIHR. The post-holder will have the opportunity to contribute to the writing and preparation of peer-review publications and will support the team with this work. Main Duties Collect research data and data entry; To assist in devising efficient and successful recruitment strategies, liaising with a range of Trust clinical staff, service users and carers to ensure the trial’s recruitment targets are met, and taking any remedial action if required following agreement from the Lead Clinician. The researcher(s) will jointly lead in recruitment from the Birmingham and Solihull region. They will ensure that any data queries are resolved in a timely manner and as per the requirements of the study To arrange and conduct diagnostic screening, semi-structured interviews and assessments with participants and where appropriate their carers, providing them with appropriate information and obtaining their informed consent to participate. To liaise with and have regular contact with the study researchers at other participating sites across the UK. Analyse research data as directed Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars, conferences and as posters Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods Provide guidance as required to support staff. Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture To work with the SNAPPER study Co-investigator with lived experience of mental health problems to help develop and deliver comprehensive PPI to the study during all phases. The post-holder will need to be willing to travel to recruitment sites / clinical areas where needed. This primarily will be the Barberry Centre for Mental Health, in order to engage mental health services with the study, recruit patients and complete assessments and follow-ups as necessary The list of responsibilities is not exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be expected within the scope and banding of the post. Person Specification Degree or equivalent in relevant subject area Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques. This means experience in the NHS or Higher education in relevant healthcare subject and understanding of research methodology, and RCTs Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively Ability to access and organise resources successfully Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly Strong communication skills including report and scientific writing skills, together with the ability to persuade and deliver information effectively through presentations Ability to work effectively as part of a team Requirement for DBS, Occupational Health Check and awareness of the Data Protection Act (DPA) OH & DBS required The University is committed to safeguarding and we promote safe recruitment practice, therefore all associated pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. Due to the nature of the work undertaken in this role all successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory Occupational Health and DBS clearance prior to appointment. Informal enquiries to Shahara Choudhry, email: s.h.choudhry@bham.ac.uk Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview. We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website .