The University of Plymouth has a strong interdisciplinary research ethos which is supported by our three strategic Research Institutes: the Marine Institute, the Sustainable Earth Institute, and the Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research. 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.
We are excited to offer this post-doctoral development opportunity for future leaders in dementia research. Applicants will hold a background in health and social care, the social sciences, research methodology or the creative arts. You will have, or be near to submitting, a PhD in one of these areas and experience of working and conducting research with people living with dementia and their families. This post is being recruited at grade 7, 8 or 9 depending on skills and experience, please clearly indicate on your application which level you are applying for.
The post is an NIHR capacity-building Post-doctoral Fellowship with the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration South-West Peninsula (PenARC). It can be undertaken full-time for two years with either traditional, hybrid or remote working patterns. Clinically-qualified applicants working in NHS settings could be seconded to the role and would be able to continue providing 1 – 2 clinical sessions per week if desired.
You will conduct research aligned with the objectives of the PenARC dementia theme. The programme of research and training will be agreed with the PenARC Director, Academic Career Development Lead, Dementia Theme Lead and relevant PIs taking account of your experience and interests. You will develop research skills by contributing to ongoing high-profile projects in the dementia field and there will be opportunities to pursue individual research interests. You will be encouraged to develop funding/Fellowship applications to support further research beyond the end of the currently funded post. You will join a vibrant and diverse academic community and receive mentoring support. You will be part of the cross-ARC Community of Practice and have access to learning and development opportunities through the NIHR Academy as well as in-house.
Our dementia theme offers extensive opportunities for researchers to gain experience in key priority areas, preparing them to become future research leaders. Our dementia research focuses on (a) better understanding of the needs of people living with dementia and carers and developing interventions to help meet these needs, (b) better understanding of population risk factors for dementia and how these can be addressed, and (c) maximising impact from existing research in these areas through effective implementation. Enhancing quality of life and well-being, tackling health inequalities, co-production, and inclusion of ‘seldom heard’ groups are all central to our approach.
The group’s research is conducted throughout the UK and beyond, but the particular challenges facing people with dementia living in the southwest provide an excellent environment for developing and evaluating innovative approaches to improving lives and services. Our focus is guided by dedicated local and national PPIE groups comprising people with dementia and carers, and by close links with charities and services in health, social care and the private sector.
This is a fixed term post for 24 months due to funding commencing on the 1st October 2022. For further information, please contact Richard Byng by email richard.byng@plymouth.ac.uk
This role will require a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service Check.
Please demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.
Interviews are likely to take place on Wednesday 10th August 2022 and you will be notified if you have been shortlisted or not.
We offer a competitive salary package and a generous pension and holiday scheme. We also offer a range of other benefits, including ongoing development opportunities.
The University of Plymouth is a diverse, welcoming community where everyone makes a difference and is encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. To find out more about our inclusive community, initiatives such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter and our range of benefits / support mechanisms such as flexible working, staff networks and enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages.
We particularly welcome applicants from under-represented groups at the University of Plymouth, such as BAME/BIPOC and LGBT+.
The Faculty of Health holds a Silver Athena Swan Award and the University holds a Bronze Athena Swan Award which recognises commitment to advancing women’s careers in STEEM academia.
Job Description - Grade 7 - Research Fellow
Job Description - Grade 8 - Senior Research Fellow
Job Description - Grade 9 - Associate Professor
Additional Faculty Information
Teaching Qualifications & Recognition Policy (Associate Professor)
