Research Associate | Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent NHS Foundation Trust in Cambridge seeks a motivated Research Associate to contribute to an NIHR-funded research programme focused on improving breastfeeding for late preterm infants. The role involves systematic reviews, mixed-methods research, and analysis of data within a collaborative team environment. The position is fixed-term for one year with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

On-site leisure facilities

Reduced-cost bus travel

24/7 hot food

Flexible working arrangements

Support for good working days

Qualifications

• Experience in research methodologies including qualitative and quantitative analysis.
• Strong communication skills for interviews and focus groups.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct a systematic review of Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) implementation strategies.
• Undertake mixed-methods formative research with parents and healthcare professionals.
• Support the analysis and interpretation of qualitative and quantitative data.

Job description

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our multi‑disciplinary team to deliver an NIHR‑funded research programme on “Kangaroo Mother Care interventions in NHS hospitals to improve breastfeeding for infants born late preterm”. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a research programme aimed at improving neonatal and maternal outcomes through innovative, evidence‑based interventions. This will be a fixed‑term one‑year post.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct a systematic review of Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) implementation strategies.
• Undertake mixed‑methods formative research (interviews, focus groups, surveys) with parents/caregivers and healthcare professionals.
• Assist with the development of study materials and research ethics submission.
• Support the analysis and interpretation of qualitative and quantitative data.
• Contribute to the delivery of the NIHR‑funded research programme.

Support and Development

You will join a supportive and collaborative research environment with access to professional development, specifically training in behavioural and implementation science.

About Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH)

CUH NHS Foundation Trust comprises Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the Rosie Hospital in Cambridge. With over 13,000 staff and over 1,100 beds the priorities of the Trust focus on a quality service which is all about people – patients, staff and partners. Recognised as providing ‘outstanding’ care to our patients and rated ‘Good’ overall by the Care Quality Commissioner, this is a testament to the skill and dedication of the people who work here. CUH’s values – Together – Safe, Kind, Excellent – are at the heart of patient care, defining the way all staff work and behave.

CUH is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community. We value our differences and fully advocate and support an inclusive working environment where every individual can fulfil their potential. We welcome applications for all positions in the organisation irrespective of people’s age, disability, ethnicity, race, nationality, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, religion or belief, marriage and civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity status or social economic background.

Application Process

Applications will be accepted until midnight on 26 November 2025. Interviews are scheduled for 5 December 2025.

Please see the attached Applicant Information Pack (combined Job Description and Person Specification) for key duties and responsibilities.

We welcome applications from the Armed Forces.

Benefits

• On‑site leisure facilities, a shopping concourse and day nurseries.
• Reduced‑cost Stagecoach bus travel to and from the Cambridge University Hospital site. Park and Ride bus journeys between Babraham Road and Trumpington sites are free, as is the route to and from Cambridge train station and our hospitals. We also subsidise the cost of parking on site for eligible staff.
• 24/7 hot food available on CUH campus at a reduced cost for colleagues.
• Staff pod break spaces in the Deakin Centre, with a colleague‑only café, free tea and coffee, a break space and a private outside area.
• Flexible arrangements including part‑time working, job‑share, term‑time working and flexible start and finish times. Alternative working hours may be considered on discussion.
• Good work programme and support for good working days.