PenARC Mental Health Postdoctoral Research Fellow

We welcome applications from candidates interested in working part-time hours or job-sharing arrangements.

This full-time post is available from May 2026 on a fixed term basis to cover maternity until April 2027. 

Summary of the role

The Faculty wishes to recruit a temporary maternity cover Postdoctoral Research Fellow to support the work Mental Health theme of the NIHR ARC South West (PenARC). NIHR Applied Research Collaborations (ARCs) support applied health and care research that responds to, and meets, the needs of local populations and local health and care systems. The ARCs aim to improve outcomes for patients and the public; improve the quality, delivery and efficiency of health and care services; and increase the sustainability of the health and care system both locally and nationally. PenARC is a collaboration between the Universities of Exeter, Bristol and Plymouth, with academic staff working across three sites. For more information about our work please visit: https://www.arc-swp.nihr.ac.uk/

Mental health problems are currently the single largest cause of disability in the UK and represent an ever-increasing burden across all ages of the population, and health and social care systems. Mental health research is an ongoing priority for the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and for the NIHR. Currently, a large proportion of mental health research activity is focused in a small number of geographical locations, with significantly less activity in areas where mental health conditions are most prevalent. The NIHR encourages research to be conducted in populations with high mental health burden which have been historically underserved by research activity or where there is an unmet need. This disparity is significant in the South West region and the post holder will be integral in working with our partners to help overcome and address the issues facing our population.

About you

The successful applicant will be able to develop research objectives, projects and proposals; identify sources of research funding and contribute to the process of securing funds and make presentations at conferences and other events.

Applicants will possess a relevant PhD or equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study. The successful applicant will be a recognised authority in mental health service research and possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to develop research programmes and methodologies. The successful applicant will also be able to work collaboratively, supervise the work of others and act as team leader as required. Applicants will be able to create and maintain relationships with mental health service providers, engaging these people and bodies in research activity to help build capacity.   

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.

Further information

Please contact Rebecca Hardwick, rebecca.hardwick@plymouth.ac.uk.  

This role may be subject to additional background screening.

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