University of the West of England
Research Associate

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Research Associate
Research Fellow (Fixed-Term, Funded by the Medical Research Council)
About This Role
We are seeking a Research Fellow to contribute to an exciting research project to develop psychosocial support interventions for people living with and beyond head and neck cancer who experience body image distress following treatment.
The Research Associate will collaborate with a team of experienced researchers and clinicians, both within and outside UWE Bristol, while engaging with external stakeholders such as:
- Clinicians
- Cancer support organisations
- Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) contributors
Key Responsibilities
- Support the delivery of the research programme, including:
- Conducting systematic and scoping literature reviews
- Engaging in stakeholder engagement and co-production activities
- Synthesising findings to inform the development of a psychosocial intervention
- Contribute to development of reports, presentations, and academic publications
Location and Environment
The role will be based at the Centre for Appearance Research (CAR), the world’s largest research centre focused on appearance and body image. Key benefits include:
- A stimulating research environment and internationally recognised team
- Commitment to research excellence with diverse externally funded projects
- Hosting of the biennial **international conference ‘Appearance Matters’*’
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About You
Essential Qualifications
- Master’s degree in health psychology, clinical psychology, or a related discipline
- Registration for (or intent to pursue) a PhD or Professional Doctorate (desirable)
- Strong interest in:
- Psycho-oncology
- Body image and psychosocial aspects of cancer survivorship
- Psycho-social adjustment, wellbeing, and body image concerns in cancer contexts
- Experience conducting literature reviews
- Ability to work collaboratively with:
- Clinical, academic, community, or third-sector stakeholders
- Co-production research methods
Desirable Attributes
- Experience working with:
- Individuals affected by head and neck cancer or other visible difference-related conditions
- Psychosocial intervention development
- PPIE contributor experience
- Prior involvement in research dissemination (publications, conferences, presentations)
Note: Training opportunities and regulatory supervision will be provided.
Location and Work Arrangements
- Base: Modern Frenchay Campus, UWE Bristol
- Location: High-quality campus facilities with hybrid flexibility (37 hours/week, hybrid remote-work)
- Duration: Fixed-term until August 2028, offered on a job-sharing (part-time) basis


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Why UWE Bristol?
Institutional Commitment
- Largest provider of Higher Education in the South West (38,000 students + 4,000 staff)
- Bristol, a highly vibrant and progressive city
- Core mission to "make a positive difference to our planet"
- Tackling real-world challenges through research and education
Benefits to Staff
- Progressive salary bands reflecting experience and skill parity
- Vendor-supported pension, annual leave, staff savings plans
- On-site nursery, career development programs
Inclusivity & Diversity
- Actively supports a diverse, multi-cultural community
- Highlights bias toward Global Majority candidates (but appointments made on merit)
- Disability Confident employer — encourages applications from neurodivergent candidates
Next Steps
Contact: For informal discussions, email Dr Helena Lewis-Smith at Helena.Lewis-Smith@uwe.ac.uk
Application link: Complete via the online application form.
- Right to Work: Offered roles require valid documentation (eligibility to work in the UK pre-starts).
- Visa Support: Possible endorsement for Global Talent Visa or exploration of other visa options.
Important: UWE Bristol will not cover any visa or health surcharge costs.
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