Research Fellow

**Department**

This post will be based within the Mental Health and Addiction Research Group (MHARG) at the Department of Health Sciences at the University of York. MHARG, in collaboration with the Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit (NCTU), has recently been awarded a prestigious research grant in the field of human-animal interaction research. The project involves the development of rigorous research instruments to aid the future design and conduct of high quality randomised controlled trials of animal-assisted interventions in mental health populations and of Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) capacity in the field. It will inform the design of a larger programme of research involving a canine-assisted intervention in a to-be-specified mental health population.

We are looking for an experienced, highly motivated and passionate research fellow to join our interdisciplinary research team of academics, clinicians and providers of canine-assisted interventions for this exciting project. The post presents a unique opportunity for career development in an inspiring research environment, joining a large and highly successful multi-disciplinary Department renowned for its methodological expertise and commitment to research with high impact on policy and practice. Hybrid working arrangements involving part-time working from home can be considered.

The University of York offers flexible working patterns and a number of family friendly initiatives. As a Department we are proud to foster a supportive culture that helps staff and students contribute fully, flourish and excel, to reach their full potential. We embrace equality, diversity and inclusion as well as the values of the Athena SWAN Charter in all our Departmental activities

**Role**

As one of the lead research fellows on this research project, you will be centrally involved in the preparation and conduct of methodologically focused mixed-methods research as part of an interdisciplinary team. Supported by the Programme Leads, Dr Elena Ratschen from the University of York and Dr Sophie Hall from NCTU (University of Nottingham), and other team members, you will plan, manage and conduct research (a Delphi study and a national survey), as well as manage stakeholder consultations and develop PPIE capacity. You will be required to engage effectively with a variety of academic, clinical, third sector and other stakeholders involved with the research throughout. You will contribute substantially to the development of content for the proposed research instruments, publications and other research outputs, as well as national and international dissemination activities. You will be expected to use your initiative to contribute to the development of future research and/or lead the obtaining of external research funding. Mentorship, training and experimental learning to further develop research skills and expertise will be provided.

**Skills, Experience & Qualification needed**
- Competency and experience with planning, setting up, and managing mixed-methods research
- Experience in undertaking collaborative research projects involving a range of stakeholders (including from vulnerable populations)
- Advanced and specialist IT knowledge
- Experience with project and team management
- Excellent communication (orally and in writing), analytical and problem-solving skills
- Outstanding commitment to high quality work, a keen interest in human-animal interaction research, and excellent attention to detail.

Mentorship and training to further develop research skills and expertise will be provided. This is a part-time (60% FTE = 3 days/week) fixed term contract for 18 months.

**Interview date**:To be confirmed

**Condition of employment**:
The University strives to be diverse and inclusive - a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork