Research Associate

Vacancy terms: Full-time or job share, fixed term role for 15 months

Hours per week: 37.5

About the role

We are looking for a motivated and talented post-doctoral researcher to contribute to our NIHR-funded realist review, led by Professor Jeremy Howick, exploring the effective expression of empathy in digital healthcare consultations. You will be working in the Stoneygate Centre for Empathic Healthcare, a dynamic and impactful team embedded within Leicester Medical School.

In this role, you will manage your own academic research, get involved in project management and coordinate multiple aspects of work. With the project team, you will execute a realist review (with methodological training and support if needed), which includes developing and refining a programme theory; search strategies; accessing, selecting and reviewing research papers and other documents; managing databases; analysing and synthesising data and refining theories as appropriate.

About you

The successful candidate will hold a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline and demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills. You will have excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to prioritise tasks effectively. Essential criteria include evidence of contribution to peer-reviewed publications, and experience with realist reviews, preferably as lead author of a published realist review. Expertise in relevant research approaches and analytical techniques, and enthusiasm for the subject area are required. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-quality research in a supportive and stimulating environment.

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Professor Jeremy Howick on empathy@leicester.ac.uk. 

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Advert closes midnight on: 15 October 2025

Advert information