Lecturer in Psychology as Applied to Dentistry

Within the Centre for Oral, Clinical and Translational Sciences (COCTS) of the Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences at King’s College London, there has existed a group of psychologists working in the field of the application of psychological theory to the study of dentistry for over 30 years.  

Historically the areas of research focus for the team have been:

• Interventions to reduce dental anxiety and chronic oro-facial pain
• Interventions to support behaviour change in dental settings
• Understanding the mechanisms of early recognition of cancer 

The team have a record of international excellence in the field of psychology as applied to dentistry, including research, teaching, knowledge exchange and impact.

The Faculty now wish to explore the possibility of expanding the scope of work to include collaborations with Health psychologists across King’s College London, most notably within the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (https://www.kcl.ac.uk/research/health-psychology-section):

• The biopsychosocial processes underlying adaptation and symptom management in long-term conditions 
• Digital health technologies 
• Interventions for the management of long term conditions 

We are looking to appoint an individual to play a key role in developing and executing internationally leading research as an independent investigator and through collaborative working. The successful candidate will have a strong research track record relevant to one or more of the areas listed and have experience of leading interdisciplinary activities and will work towards establishing a research program that attracts external funding to support your research in line with the expectations of a probationary Lecturer.

The postholder will contribute to educational programmes within the faculty, including both undergraduate and postgraduate taught courses.

We particularly encourage applicants who have experience of excellence in science communication who can support the Centre’s translational agenda and Impact activities.  

This post will be offered on an indefinite contract.

This is a full-time position (job sharing will be considered).

Essential criteria

• Registration with the HCPC as a Practitioner Psychologist.
• PhD or equivalent in one of the following areas: Interventions to promote and maintain health-related behaviour; interventions for dental anxiety and/or pain management; the biopsychosocial processes underlying adaptation and symptom management in long-term conditions; digital health technologies; interventions for the management of long term conditions. 
• Experience of postdoctoral level research. 
• Record of publication of high-quality research outputs in peer reviewed academic journals. 
• Experience of grant application for research projects; early evidence of securing external or internal grant income.
• Experience of training and supervision of undergraduate and/or masters students. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• Commitment to promoting and maintaining a positive workplace culture. 
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to communicate complex ideas to a wide range of audiences.

Further information

For further information candidates are invited to contact Tim Newton (tim.newton@kcl.ac.uk), Professor of Psychology as Applied to Dentistry.

Closing date: 09 June 2024

Advert information