Research Associate - Department of Applied Health SciencesGrade 6

Position Details

Department of Applied Health Sciences School of Health Sciences College of Medicine and Health

Location: University of Birmingham Edgbaston Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range 33002 to 35608 with potential progression once in post to 39906

Grade: 6

Full Time Fixed Term contract up to August 2028

Closing date: 17th September 2025

Please note: We are advertising for both a Research Associate (106202) and a Research Fellow (106198) however there is only 1 post available.

Background

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate (Grade 6) in statistics or a related field to join our research team in the Department of Applied Health Sciences. The successful candidate will support quantitative research activities across a range of projects with a particular focus on an NIHR-funded cluster randomised trial evaluating virtual wards compared to standard care for patients experiencing acute exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful applied health research and influence future models of care for people living with COPD.

The post holder will play a key role in supporting quantitative data analysis including the development of statistical analysis plans and interpretation in a cluster trial setting. There are also opportunities to work on related methods including development of simulation-based analysis and computational methods. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team including clinicians epidemiologists statisticians and health economists. Your work will contribute to a better understanding of the effectiveness cost-efficiency and implementation of innovative care models such as virtual wards which are increasingly being adopted across the NHS.

This role is particularly suited to candidates with a strong quantitative background. We welcome applicants with training in mathematics statistics health economics or epidemiology particularly those with good numeracy and a strong interest in applied health research. We do not require a previous background in randomised trials. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (e.g. STATA R SPSS) and experience working with health-related data will be advantageous. The ability to work independently manage multiple tasks and communicate findings clearly is essential.

About the Project:

Virtual wards - also referred to as hospital at home - enable the provision of hospital-level care in patients homes through the use of digital technologies that support remote monitoring and communication. These models may improve patient experience and outcomes while reducing hospital pressures. While previous randomised trials have suggested promising results they have generally been small in scale of varying quality and have not evaluated system-level impacts or implementation challenges. Importantly there remains a significant evidence gap regarding the long-term effectiveness of virtual ward approaches for COPD their impact on patient and staff experiences and the equity of access. This project aims to address these critical knowledge gaps.

Role Summary

• Work within the NIHR-funded BRIDGE study and with its team of co-applicants and collaborators
• Support delivery of the NIHR-funded D-STRESS cluster randomised trial
• Develop statistical analysis plans and related statistical code
• Contribute to methodological work around cluster randomised trials
• Contribute to generating academic publications and reports
• Contribute to public understanding of virtual wards COPD implementation research and inequalities

Main Duties

The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.

• Develop and execute statistical analysis plans and related materials including code for cluster randomised trials
• Deliver data analyses and support writing of research outputs for academic and lay audiences
• Disseminate research findings for publication including research seminars and conferences
• Contribute to developing and evaluating new models techniques and methods
• Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research
• 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

Person Specification

• BSc (Hons)/Masters level in a relevant field including statistics mathematics computer science epidemiology
• Strong mathematical and quantitative skills
• Familiarity or experience with data analysis methods (e.g. use of Stata R Python or Stata)
• 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

Further particulars can be foundhere

Informal enquiries to Samuel Watson email:

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 everyoneon our website.