Research Fellow

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity to be part of a large NIHR-funded study exploring what is working and what isn't in the care of people at the end of their lives: The study is led by Associate Professor Susie Pearce at the University of Plymouth (UoP), with project partners located at various universities, NHS institutions and organisations in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset. The study uses a participatory realist approach and has four work packages. This post will work specifically on Work Package 1- conducting in-depth qualitative case studies across rural and coastal health and care settings. This involves interviews, observations, and focus groups to explore what supports or hinders high-quality end-of-life care in different communities.

You will be based at UoP and line-managed by Susie Pearce. The role includes close collaboration with the wider research team and local partners, supporting data collection, analysis, and dissemination of findings.

The post will be based in the School of Nursing and Midwifery within the Faculty of Health. The School of Nursing and Midwifery works in partnership with local NHS trusts and other health care providers to drive forward clinical research and support students in their learning to become the best nurses and midwives they can be. An interdisciplinary approach to research covers, health services and delivery research, digital technologies, workforce research, and how knowledge is translated into practice and policy.

What we're looking for

We are seeking a talented post-doctoral researcher with strong qualitative research skills and experience working in health or care settings. Familiarity with participatory approaches and/or realist evaluation would be an advantage. You will contribute to fieldwork, support analysis, and help write academic and stakeholder-facing outputs. We particularly welcome applications from researchers with experience conducting studies in sensitive or complex areas and working with vulnerable populations.

The role will be based at Intercity Place at the University of Plymouth, with data collection for the case studies in Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset with an opportunity to discuss a hybrid online and in person working pattern. You will be required to travel regularly to Plymouth as well as collecting data from health and care providers in the regions listed above. These may not always be accessible by public transport.

For an informal online discussion about the role please contact Susie Pearce (susie )

This role will require an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Check plus a Adult's Barred List check.

This is a full-time position working 37 hours per week on a fixed-term basis until 31st January 2028. Requests for part-time working will be considered.

About us

The Faculty of Health holds four Silver Athena Swan awards, which recognise our commitment to supporting gender equality within higher education.

The University of Plymouth has a strong interdisciplinary research ethos which is supported by our two strategic Research Institutes; the Marine Institute and the Sustainable Earth Institute. As a member of our academic community, you'll be expected to contribute to our recognised research strengths. Working holistically across the University, you will be challenged to innovate, collaborate and deliver impactful research contributions as part of a systems thinking approach to addressing today's global challenges.

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.

Following the closing date of the vacancy, you will be notified on the outcome of your application in due course.

Anticipated Interview Date: Interviews will likely to take place on 18 December 2025 via Microsoft Teams.

Our Offer

Staff appointed within the Faculty of Health may be able to join the NHS pension scheme subject to eligibility criteria.

When joining us, you will receive:

• Generous annual leave: 35 Days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays & Closure Days
• Generous pension scheme
• Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Development opportunities
• Enhanced family leave
• Flexible working
• Retailer discounts
• On-site nursery

A summary of our comprehensive benefits can be viewed here.

Additional Information

The University of Plymouth is an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed regardless of their background. To find out more about our inclusive community initiatives, such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter, please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages.