Senior Research Associate in Qualitative Evidence Synthesis

University of Bristol Law School; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 43,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent academic institution in Bristol is seeking two qualitative or mixed-methods researchers for a project evaluating respiratory vaccine effectiveness. The role involves reviewing literature on vaccination experiences and collaborating with various stakeholders. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in qualitative synthesis and project management. The positions offer hybrid working arrangements, with salaries ranging from £43,482 to £50,253 per annum depending on hours worked.

Qualifications

• Experience conducting systematic reviews and qualitative evidence synthesis.
• Ability to manage and lead research projects within a multidisciplinary team.
• Comfort in communicating with diverse stakeholders, including public workshops.

Responsibilities

• Support the systematic review and synthesis of qualitative literature on vaccination experiences.
• Develop research protocols, conduct data screening, and analyze qualitative data.
• Engage in patient and public involvement activities to inform the review.

Skills

Qualitative evidence synthesis

Research project management

Excellent communication

Job description

Overview

The role: We are seeking to appoint two enthusiastic and skilled qualitative or mixed-methods researchers to join the Health Protection Research Unit in Evaluation and Behavioural Science. The postholders will work together to support the behavioural science work package of an NIHR Programme Grant focused on evaluating respiratory vaccine effectiveness and co-producing tailored interventions to support vaccine uptake. The project is led by Professor Jonathan Sterne at the University of Bristol and involves close collaboration with other research groups within the University, as well as national and international research partners. Hybrid working is available - to be agreed with the line manager.

Responsibilities

We are seeking to appoint two senior research associates to support the behavioural science work package (WP5) of the project. The successful candidates will work together to systematically review and synthesise qualitative literature exploring views and experiences of vaccination among underrepresented groups. This will include developing a protocol, data screening, analysis and synthesis of qualitative research data, and writing the work up for publication. Successful candidates will also be expected to support patient and public involvement activities to inform the review.

You should apply if

• You have experience conducting systematic reviews and qualitative evidence synthesis.
• You have experience managing and leading research projects and are confident working collaboratively as part of a large multidisciplinary team.
• You have excellent communication skills and are comfortable communicating with a wide range of stakeholders, including leading workshops with members of the public.
• You’re looking to make a real-world impact through applied research that informs future public health interventions and policy.

Additional information

• Contract type: Open-ended with funding until 31/12/2026 (start 05/01/2026)
• Work pattern: 2 positions: 1 x 35 hours & 1 x 17.50 hours
• Grade: J /Pathway 2
• Salary: £43,482- £50,253 per annum (pro rata if part-time)
• School/Unit: Bristol Medical School
• Shift pattern: 1.5 FTE in total: 1 x Full-time/1 FTE, 1 x Part-time/0.5 FTE
• Advert closing date: 23:59 UK time on 05/10/2025
• Informal enquiries: contact Sarah Denford - [e-mail]

Our strategy and mission

We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.

The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives - particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.