Research Assistant

Type of Contract: Funding-limited from 1 May 2026 to 31 March 2028

The Epidemiology Group is part of the Aberdeen Centre for Research Excellence in Musculoskeletal Health (ABC-MSK), which brings together researchers, clinicians and patient partners to improve the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions represent a growing health and socio-economic burden, particularly in the context of an ageing population. Research within the Group spans epidemiology, clinical studies and health services research, with a shared aim of improving outcomes for people living with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs).

A key component of this work is an interdisciplinary programme of applied, mixed-methods health services research exploring how health and social care services for people with musculoskeletal conditions are organised and delivered in routine practice. This research generates practice-relevant evidence to inform more effective, equitable and person-centred models of care. Studies are delivered through collaborations involving patients, clinicians, researchers and healthcare decision-makers, and integrate a range of methodological approaches including routine healthcare data, epidemiology and qualitative research, with embedded patient and public involvement and co-design.

Cross-cutting themes across this programme include health inequalities, particularly geographical barriers to accessing care, and the impact of musculoskeletal conditions on people’s ability to participate in and remain in work.

The Epidemiology Group is also a partner in the MRC and Arthritis UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Health and Work and the newly established Scottish Centre for Work and Health, a multi-institutional collaboration advancing research on the relationship between work and health in Scotland.

To support our expanding programme of work, we are seeking to appoint a Research Assistant with strong quantitative skills to support the delivery of this research programme. The postholder will contribute primarily to quantitative analyses of epidemiological and registry datasets, while also providing broader research and coordination support across the team.

Salary will be at the appropriate point on the Grade 5 scale, £33,002 - £34,610 per annum and negotiable with placement according to qualifications and experience.

Informal enquiries should be made to Dr Rosemary Hollick or Professor Gary Macfarlane (epidemiology@abdn.ac.uk).

In accordance with the UKVI immigration rules, it is with regret that this role DOES NOT MEET THE SALARY REQUIREMENTS for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route.  For this role, the successful candidate must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK prior to commencing employment and obtain the right to work in the UK.  Information on other visa options is available at https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa.

To apply online for this position click the 'Apply' button above.

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 15 April 2026

The School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition embraces a diverse working environment and recognises the many benefits this can bring.  Applications from individuals from across all of the equality protected characteristics are encouraged.

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