Post Doctoral Research Assistant

We are looking for a post-doctoral research assistant in Psychology for an exciting opportunity to be involved in a project funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). The post is funded at three days a week for 18 months from 1st April 2026.

Medications that carry a risk of dependence and withdrawal are prescribed at significantly higher rates in prisons compared to the general population. People in prison often experience poorer health and have more complex healthcare needs, yet managing these medications within the prison setting presents unique challenges. There is a need for research into how these medicines are prescribed, managed, and safely reduced or discontinued in prisons. This study aims to improve the experience and quality of care for people in prison who are prescribed medicines with a risk of dependence or withdrawal.

The candidate will be responsible for day to day running of the project. Supported by the study research team they will be responsible for the recruitment of participants; qualitative interviews with people in prison and prison healthcare staff (North East / North West England); qualitative data analysis; and working with the research team to run co-production workshops.

The successful candidate must have a good undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in psychology or a related discipline and have a doctoral/PhD qualification (or be nearing completion). Experience of conducting prison-based research, and qualitative research is essential.

Benefits

As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of a minimum of 25 days holiday, rising with your service, plus 8 Bank Holidays and additional University concessionary Days (approx 5 per year).

We encourage and support hybrid working where the role allows and ensure that you have the necessary equipment to allow you to work flexibly.

We have an extremely competitive Local Government pension scheme with a 19.2% Employer contribution rate, as well as providing all staff with financial education, a comprehensive employee assistance helpline.

We prioritise the well-being of our employees—both physically and mentally, as well as financially. That's why we provide a diverse and comprehensive benefits package to support our team.

In addition, all employees have access to:

• Discounted rates for the University sports & gym facilities
• Brookes on-site Nursery.
• Discounted travel options
• TOTUM card discount scheme
• Relocation scheme (for moves over 30 miles, subject to terms of the scheme)
• Training and development opportunities
• Connected community - Brookes have a wide variety of staff networks which instil a sense of community offering employees a space for support, guidance and friendship making it a vibrant and inclusive place to work.

Advert information