Research Associate (Qualitative)

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Contract Type: Fixed Term (31/01/2026)

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Wednesday 24 April 2024

Interview Date: To be confirmed

You will join an interdisciplinary team conducting groundbreaking research with young people, on the role of social media influencers' narratives in youth mental health. You will be based at the prestigious Institute for Health and Neurodevelopment at Aston University. You will carry out participant recruitment, qualitative data collection (interviews), qualitative data analysis (phenomenologically focused), group facilitation work (consensus development), and co-production.

You will work under the supervision of Dr Michael Larkin (Aston University), Dr Ruth Page (University of Birmingham) and Prof Paul Crawford (Nottingham University), and collaborate with a wide range of people, including other research team members, colleagues at the McPin Foundation, young people, other researchers, professionals and practitioners.

A satisfactory enhanced DBS clearance is required for this post.

About you:

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate: good knowledge of, and experience with qualitative research methods; psychological research; excellent communication skills; proven competency with academic publication and dissemination; an interest in other people’s experiences; an ability to apply the principles of best practice for coproduction and PPI (public and patient involvement in research), good knowledge of social media platforms; good knowledge of mental health literacy and related concepts; and a commitment to improving mental healthcare provision for young people.

About the project:

In this UKRI-funded project, we will conduct a series of studies to explore the role played by social media influencers' accounts of mental health, in contributing to the mental health literacy of young people. We will work with young people and other stakeholders to develop guidance and tools to support young people in navigating and evaluating these accounts.

Further details:   

Job Details     University Information    

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, including race and sexual orientation, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk

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