3538526CF - Research Fellow

University of Southampton; Southampton; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 42,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Job summary

The University of Southampton invites applications for a part‑time Research Fellow to join our team and advance research into sudden and unexpected deaths in infancy and childhood. The role emphasizes independent study, rigorous data analysis (both qualitative and quantitative) and producing publications for the funder.

This NIHR‑funded project spans academic, clinical and policy sectors, with an active commitment to impact, bereavement support, and national guidance.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing and analysing complex health data.
• Proven ability to write publishable research with clear conclusions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Conduct qualitative and quantitative data analyses for publications.
• Prepare manuscripts and funder reports detailing findings and implications.
• Collaborate with academic, clinical and policy partners to ensure impact.

Skills

Qualitative data analysis

Quantitative data analysis

Academic writing

Education

PhD/MSc in health-related field

Job description

We are looking to appoint a dynamic and independent Research Fellow with excellent interpersonal skills to join our vibrant research team and drive impactful research into sudden and unexpected deaths in infancy and childhood.

This project, which is funded by the National Institute for Health Research, is the first of its kind, has national reach and importance, and represents the collaboration of multiple stakeholders across the academic, clinical, charitable and policy sectors.

After the sudden death of their child, families often do not have ready access to support and care, and professionals supporting families can be at risk for mental distress and lack support. This is the first study focusing on really understanding experiences, needs and outcomes for families; and will develop recommendations for robust bereavement support and care. The role will mainly involve qualitative and quantitative data analysis and writing for publication, and report writing for the funder. The project has tangible outcomes that the data analysis and publication is feeding into, including development of new national policy to deliver meaningful impact on the lives of families and actual change in the organisation and delivery of services.

What we can offer you

The University of Southampton provides a world-class research environment, with REF 2021 demonstrating that 92% of our research is world-leading or internationally excellent. We rank in the top 10% of UK universities and 4th in the Russell Group for research impact, with >97% of our research environment rated world-leading or internationally excellent. The School of Health Sciences ranks among the top three UK institutions for overall research quality.

The University of Southampton recognizes that research excellence emerges from diverse perspectives and inclusive collaboration. While we welcome all qualified applicants, we particularly encourage applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups, including Black and minority ethnic researchers, and disabled people. As a Disability Confident employer with bronze Athena SWAN recognition (University Silver Award status), we demonstrate sustained commitment to creating equitable opportunities across all career stages.

This role presents an exciting and challenging opportunity to drive influential research in a collaborative and supportive team environment. We embrace diversity and inclusion in our workplace and the research embodies that commitment. The role is ideal for someone with an interest in social justice and looking to make a real difference through rewarding research. It offers opportunities to use your qualitative and quantitative research skills, in a very complex topic, and to contribute to multiple publications. This role specifically looks for a researcher experienced in carrying out complex analyses and writing for publication.

You will have a relevant research-related experience, and/or a PhD/MSc and a keen interest in the field of health and related areas of mental health and wellbeing. Excellent organisational and communication skills are also essential for this role.

The post will be at the level of Research Fellow.

Informal enquiries are very welcome. Please contact Professor Anne-Sophie Darlington ([e-mail]) or Dr Katherine Hunt ([e-mail]) for further information.

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and is proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.

Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme

3538526CF - Research Fellow

Company: University of Southampton Salary: £37,369 to £41,885 a year, pro rata Hours: Part-time Location: Southampton, SO17 1BJ Working pattern: On-site Job type: Contract Posting date: 26 Oct 2026 Closing date: 23 Nov 2026

Summary

We are looking to appoint a dynamic and independent Research Fellow with excellent interpersonal skills to join our vibrant research team and drive impactful research into sudden and unexpected deaths in infancy and childhood.

This project, which is funded by the National Institute for Health Research, is the first of its kind, has national reach and importance, and represents the collaboration of multiple stakeholders across the academic, clinical, charitable and policy sectors.

After the sudden death of their child, families often do not have ready access to support and care, and professionals supporting families can be at risk for mental distress and lack support. This is the first study focusing on really understanding experiences, needs and outcomes for families; and will develop recommendations for robust bereavement support and care. The role will mainly involve qualitative and quantitative data analysis and writing for publication, and report writing for the funder. The project has tangible outcomes that the data analysis and publication is feeding into, including development of new national policy to deliver meaningful impact on the lives of families and actual change in the organisation and delivery of services.

What we can offer you

The University of Southampton provides a world-class research environment, with REF 2021 demonstrating that 92% of our research is world-leading or internationally excellent. We rank in the top 10% of UK universities and 4th in the Russell Group for research impact, with >97% of our research environment rated world-leading or internationally excellent. The School of Health Sciences ranks among the top three UK institutions for overall research quality.

The University of Southampton recognizes that research excellence emerges from diverse perspectives and inclusive collaboration. While we welcome all qualified applicants, we particularly encourage applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups, including Black and minority ethnic researchers, and disabled people. As a Disability Confident employer with bronze Athena SWAN recognition (University Silver Award status), we demonstrate sustained commitment to creating equitable opportunities across all career stages.

This role presents an exciting and challenging opportunity to drive influential research in a collaborative and supportive team environment. We embrace diversity and inclusion in our workplace and the research embodies that commitment. The role is ideal for someone with an interest in social justice and looking to make a real difference through rewarding research. It offers opportunities to use your qualitative and quantitative research skills, in a very complex topic, and to contribute to multiple publications. This role specifically looks for a researcher experienced in carrying out complex analyses and writing for publication.

You will have a relevant research-related experience, and/or a PhD/MSc and a keen interest in the field of health and related areas of mental health and wellbeing. Excellent organisational and communication skills are also essential for this role.

The post will be at the level of Research Fellow.

Informal enquiries are very welcome. Please contact Professor Anne-Sophie Darlington ([e-mail]) or Dr Katherine Hunt ([e-mail]) for further information.

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and is proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.