Research Associate in Behavioural Science and Cancer Screening

Location: St Mary’s Campus, Paddington / Hybrid 

About the role:

The Institute of Global Health Innovation (IGHI), led by Professor Ara Darzi, is seeking to appoint a Research Associate in behavioural science in cancer screening. The role holder will conduct and support a funded research study working with industry to design targeted interventions to increase cervical and lung screening uptake. This project will be working with health startup, Appt Health, which is a patient engagement service used by the NHS to transform public uptake of preventive healthcare. Appt Health in collaboration with Imperial College London have received funding for a 2-year study to design and test tailored, behavioural science informed, communication to improve the uptake of cervical and lung cancer screening on a population level.

What you would be doing:

As a core member of the research team, you will aim to make a real-world impact on the uptake of these important preventative healthcare services. Your responsibilities will include supporting the development and evaluation of the targeted intervention with a focus on the development of messages for low uptake subgroups through rapid literature reviews, and a series of co-design workshops.

Three low-uptake subgroups will be chosen for both lung and cervical cancer screening, and three co-design workshops will be run with each group. These workshops will take place in person around the UK (you must be willing to travel).

You will work closely with colleagues at Imperial and Appt Health to co-design the targeted intervention messages, facilitate PPIE (Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement) meetings and evaluate intervention outcomes.

You will assist with writing of reports and academic papers, and presenting findings to colleagues and stakeholders. You will be part of a team led by Dr Gaby Judah (PI) and work closely with another Research Associate on the project Dr Ada Humphrey, as well as a wider team across Appt Health and Imperial. The role will also include contributing to the Institute’s educational offerings.

What we are looking for:

• You will hold a PhD in behavioural science or a closely related discipline (Anthropology, Sociology).
• You will have (advanced) knowledge of research methods, particularly in qualitative research, including interviews, focus groups and thematic analysis. Experience with participatory methods and PPIE is desirable.
• You will possess excellent communication skills and be confident in developing good working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. In addition, you will be a motivated team player, working together with the goal to achieve the Centres objectives.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity
• Work within a group of researchers working on behavioural science in health and healthcare
• Grow your career: Gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Training opportunities working collaboratively across IGHI
• 10 development days to pursue additional training relevant to your career

Further Information

This post is full time and fixed term.

If you require any further details on the role please contact: [Ada Humphrey] – [a.humphrey@imperial.ac.uk].

Closing date: 16 June 2025

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