Research Associate in Nutritional Sciences

About the role

We are looking to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Associate with a PhD in Nutrition (or a topic related to Nutrition).

The post will offer leadership on an impactful research project commissioned by the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) that aims to synthesise evidence and model national data to inform re-assessment of iron dietary reference values for the UK population.

We will conduct two systematic reviews of primary research, one focusing on physiological iron requirements for children aged 0–18 years and one focusing on dietary iron bioavailability. Informed by the findings of the systematic reviews, we will undertake detailed modelling using data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) to generate a range of dietary iron bioavailability values and projected iron DRVs for different UK population groups.

It is a rare and incredibly exciting opportunity, as the findings of this project will be used by the UK Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) to support the guidance they provide to the UK Government on dietary intake recommendations for the UK population.

The successful individual will be able to establish themselves as a leader in the conduct of systematic reviews that inform DRVs. There will be opportunities for publications and developing independence and new skills in research, including engagement with the public, nutrition professionals, policy makers.

The post holder will manage the project on a day-to-day basis with a key role in conducting the two systematic reviews with the help of two Research Assistants and input from research team members.

The post holder will further be expected to co-ordinate and attend Study Management Group and Advisory Group meetings. They will be involved in the planning and co-ordination of public involvement and engagement activities, and dissemination of findings to scientific audiences, nutrition professionals, policy makers and the public. There will also be opportunity to contribute to marking and teaching on undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.

This is a part time post (28 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed-term contract until 31 March 2027.

About You

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:

Essential criteria

• PhD in Nutrition (or a topic closely related to Nutrition) *
• Experience in conducting a systematic review, as evidenced by lead authorship on at least one published systematic review (or manuscript in preparation)
• Collaborative yet independent – works effectively both independently and within a team
• Ability to write high quality reports and manuscripts
• Excellent communication and engagement skills (verbal and written)
• Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, actively addressing areas of potential bias

* Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting award of their PhDs will be considered. In these circumstances the appointment will be made at Grade 5, spine point 30 with the title of Research Assistant. Upon confirmation of the award of the PhD, the job title will become Research Associate and the salary will increase to Grade 6.

Desirable criteria

• Experience with online software for conducting systematic reviews (e.g. Covidence)
• Demonstrated experience in conducting research in the field of iron nutrition
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail whilst working on a range of projects

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