Research Associate

Aston University; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent research institution in Birmingham is seeking a motivated Research Associate to manage the ASPIRE project focused on pharmacoepidemiology. The role involves data management, analysis, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. Candidates should have a relevant PhD and experience with real-world data analysis. Hybrid work is possible, and the position offers competitive pay and generous benefits.

Benefits

Hybrid working

30 days annual leave

On-site gym and pool

Training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Candidates should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in a relevant discipline.
• Experience in conducting and reporting epidemiological studies using real-world data is essential.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines are required.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day activities of the ASPIRE study.
• Conduct data preparation and statistical analysis.
• Interpret findings and contribute to report writing.

Skills

Epidemiological study reporting

Statistical software proficiency (R, Stata, SAS, Python)

Organizational skills

Collaboration

Education

PhD in epidemiology, public health, statistics, or health data science

Tools

R

Stata

SAS

Python

Job description

An exciting fixed-term opportunity has arisen for a highly motivated and technically skilled Research Associate to join the Aston Centre of Excellence in Pharmacotherapy Optimisation and Pharmacoepidemiology Research (ACEPOP).

ACEPOP is an innovative research team led by Regius Professor of Pharmacy, Professor Ian Wong, and is dedicated to impactful pharmacoepidemiological research using real-world data.

The postholder will play a key role in the ASPIRE (Anxiety Disorder use of SSRI and Propranolol Interaction REsearch) project, funded by the Medical Research Foundation (MRF). This collaborative research project aims to assess whether specific propranolol-SSRI combinations are associated with a higher risk of adverse events, including suicide or accidental poisoning.

You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the ASPIRE study, including data preparation, statistical analysis, interpretation of findings, and report writing. The role offers the opportunity to work closely with a multidisciplinary team of internal and external collaborators and to contribute to high-impact publications in a supportive and dynamic research environment.

Candidates should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in a relevant discipline such as epidemiology, public health, statistics, or health data science, and should have a strong academic background including a good first degree in a related field. Experience in conducting and reporting epidemiological studies using real-world data is essential. Proficiency in using statistical software packages such as R, Stata, SAS, or Python is also required.

Strong organisational skills, the ability to meet deadlines, and a collaborative working style are essential for success in this role.

Further details about the ASPIRE project can be found in the MRF press release:
New Mental Health Launchpad Grants – MRF

The anticipated start date for this position is November 2025.

What we offer:

• Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Hybrid working is possible for this role, which means working both on campus and from home depending on the activity. Further information on hybrid working can be foundhere.
• Excellent training and developmentopportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 daysof bank holiday and University closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family-friendlypolicies.
• On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be foundhere.

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role.

Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.

£40,497 to £45,413 per annum