Join to apply for the Research Associate (SMI) role at The University of Sheffield
Overview
We are seeking to appoint a researcher who will work on a joint project between the Sections of Public Health and Health Services Research (Mental health Research Unit) within the School of Medicine and Population Health. This is an exciting opportunity to support a research project on using ketogenic diets for treating severe mental health illness (SMI). The project will complete essential preparatory work for informing an intervention trial assessing the potential of ketogenic diets for treating SMI in first episode psychosis patients.
An understanding of qualitative research is required. Experience of working with patients and developing co-designed public health approaches would be required. Prior experience of mental health research and/or research involving marginalised or vulnerable groups would be advantageous. Experience in food and nutrition public health research would be a strength.
You will have a strong understanding of conducting research using qualitative methods and working with patients for co-designing and testing lifestyle interventions. Strong spoken and written communication skills are essential to liaise with multiple partners and external bodies, and excellent interpersonal skills are required as the work involves patients, NHS providers and external collaborators.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
* Lead the day-to-day running of the research project, including leading on securing NHS research ethics approval.
* Undertake patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) with patients and NHS providers.
* Undertake proof of concept work for co-designing ketogenic diet adoption approaches, including qualitative process evaluation.
* Organise and contribute to regular research meetings and networking meetings.
* Contribute to the writing of an application for further funding and reports to funders.
* Assist in the preparation of papers for publication.
* Actively contribute to the principles of the Sheffield Academic, including excellence in applied teaching and research and scholarly pursuits.
* Support ethical decision-making and embed the University sustainability strategy where possible.
* Any other duties commensurate with the grade of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community recognises unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs. We value everyone's contribution and encourage applicants who may not meet every criterion to apply, referencing the application criteria in the statement.
Criteria
Essential or Desirable
* A good honours degree and postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience in public health research (Stage: Application/interview)
* A PhD in Public Health, Public Health Nutrition or related field (or equivalent experience) (Stage: Application/interview)
* Qualitative research experience including collecting and analysing qualitative data (Stage: Application/interview)
* Experience of co-designing public health interventions (Stage: Application/interview)
* Experience of public health nutrition research (Stage: Application/interview)
* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and ability to liaise with patients, colleagues, and external stakeholders (Stage: Application/interview/presentation)
* IT literacy across Word, Excel, Google and Microsoft Teams (Stage: Application/interview)
* Experience of writing funding applications (Stage: Application/interview/presentation)
* Excellent organisational skills and ability to work to deadlines and manage own workload (Stage: Application/interview)
* Flexible, reliable and professional approach to work (Stage: Application/interview)
Further Information
* Grade: 7
* Salary: £38,784 - £42,254 per annum pro-rata with potential to progress to £51,753
* Work arrangement: Full time
* Duration: 1st October 2025 - 31st March 2026
* Line manager: Direct reports: n/a
Contact and Next Steps
For informal enquiries about this job contact Viren Ranawana at v.ranawana@sheffield.ac.uk. Next steps: shortlisted candidates will be contacted in early to mid September for interviews at the end of September. For accessibility or adjustments during the process, contact dph-section-operations@sheffield.ac.uk.
Our Vision and Benefits
* 41 days annual leave (pro rata) including bank holidays, with option to purchase more
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid options
* Discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel
* Staff networks for development and support
* Recognitions Awards and development schemes linked to Academic Career Pathways
* Family-friendly policies and support for parenting and caring emergencies
* Support for menopause, fertility treatment, and other wellbeing programs
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, you will be invited to participate in the next stage of the selection process. More details on benefits: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence, committed to diversity and inclusive excellence.
Seniority level
* Entry level
Employment type
* Contract
Job function
* Research
* Higher Education
This description reflects the original role information and has been refined for clarity and accessibility.
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