Mental Health Research Group (MHRG) Senior Research Associate – Implementation Science

Lancaster Medical School is seeking a Senior Research Associate to join the newly established Mental Health Research Group (MHRG). This post forms part of a major, five‑year NIHR‑funded programme focused on improving mental health outcomes and reducing inequalities across the North-West of England.

Working in partnership with the University of Manchester, King’s College London, and a wide range of health, social care and community organisations, the MHRG places co‑production and lived experience at the heart of its research.

The post sits within the cross‑cutting implementation science strand, supporting the translation of research findings into meaningful and sustainable improvements in mental health services.

You will:

• Support the implementation of co‑produced mental health research across health, social care and community settings
• Work closely with academic, clinical, policy and community partners to support the development of local implementation plans and service improvements
• Facilitate collaborative, relational work to enable the practical application of research evidence
• Contribute to a range of outputs, including reports, academic publications, and materials tailored to different audiences
• Coordinate and support meetings, including the MHRG Implementation Science Steering Group
• Engage with the wider mental health research landscape and contribute to programme‑wide activities

Opportunities to contribute to the supervision of PhD students within the MHRG may also be available.

Person Specification

Essential:

• PhD in a relevant discipline, or equivalent research experience
• Knowledge of mental health research and/or health services research
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across organisational and disciplinary boundaries
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities

Desirable:

• Experience of supporting the translation of research evidence into service or practice change
• Familiarity with implementation science approaches or tools
• Experience of evaluating or measuring the impact of service improvements

Training and development in implementation science will be provided where required.

Additional Information

The post is based at Lancaster Medical School and will involve some travel within the UK. The role is offered on an indefinite contract, contingent on external funding, which is currently secured until 30 June 2031.

Lancaster University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Flexible working arrangements will be considered.

Informal enquiries:
Professor Louise Connell – l.connell2@lancaster.ac.uk 

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