Senior Research Fellow

The University of Plymouth is seeking an experienced, strategically minded Senior Research Fellow to play a leading role in an ambitious NIHR-funded mental health research programme designed to strengthen research capacity and capability across the South West Peninsula, a region facing high and complex mental health needs.

About the role

Working at the intersection of research and real-world implementation, you will lead integrated knowledge-mobilisation activities, co-produce evidence with partners and people with lived experience, and help ensure that insights are meaningfully embedded in practice, policy, and service innovation.

In collaboration with King’s College London and the University of Exeter, you will contribute to a broad “system balance” research theme aimed at improving equity and sustainability in mental health care systems, using creative and participatory approaches to shape how new evidence informs system change.

In this role, you will

• Plan and deliver original, innovative research independently and collaboratively with colleagues across institutions.
• deliver research aligned with University and School priorities,
• will contribute to leadership and engagement activities
• Identify funding sources and secure grants to support and grow the research programme.
• Develop and apply research methodologies that advance understanding in the field.
• Disseminate high-quality research findings through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and other relevant platforms.
• Support collaboration and co-production with people with lived experience.
• Lead a research team and mentor junior colleagues and postgraduate researchers.
• Provide expert advice and supervision within your area of specialism.

You may also have opportunities to support research-informed teaching. We are committed to supporting your career development, with dedicated time for fellowship and grant applications, opportunities to present at national and international conferences, and access to a structured development programme for mid-career researchers.

For an informal conversation and a closer look at what the role involves, you are encouraged contact Richard Byng at richard.byng@plymouth.ac.uk

This is a part-time position working 29.6 hours per week, starting on 1 April 2026 with an expected end date of 31 March 2031. This is due to the nature of the project and funding.

What we’re looking for

You will hold a PhD (or equivalent international qualification or recognition) in a relevant discipline and bring in-depth subject knowledge, such as psychology, psychiatry, social science, health services, or applied health research methods, sufficient to drive innovation and generate new understanding.

You will also have experience of working alongside individuals with lived experience of mental health issues.

For more information about the job and the person specification, please refer to the job description.

About Us

Joining the Community and Primary Care Research Centre (CPCRC) within the Faculty of Health, you will become part of a warm, collaborative, and growing research community with strong partnerships across the University, PenARC, NHS Trusts, third-sector organisations, and the Health Innovation Network, all united by a commitment to improving mental health care and maintaining a healthy, sustainable work–life balance.

Application Process

Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.

Anticipated Interview Date:  Friday 23 January 2026 (in person)

Our Offer

A summary of our comprehensive benefits can be viewed here.

Closing date: 12 midnight, Sunday 11 January 2026

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