University of Cambridge
Research Associate (fixed term), Evaluating novel spatial planning interventions to improve public health
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About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Population Health Interventions Group within the Institute of Metabolic Science (IMS) Epidemiology at the University of Cambridge. I am seeking to appoint an ambitious and skilled Research Associate to work alongside me on a programme of work funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Together, we will conduct public health research on how the spatial planning system can improve population diet and reduce diet-related disease.
About the Research
Many neighbourhoods do not support health. They contain large numbers of shops selling unhealthy food, tobacco and alcohol, with few opportunities to walk, cycle and play safely. These environments shape health, but they can be changed. My research programme explores how local and national government can use planning policy to create healthier places, using takeaway food outlets as a case study of planning's broader potential.
We will evaluate whether new national planning rules have helped local authorities adopt policies to manage takeaways, including refusing new takeaways near schools. Some local authorities have gone further by allowing only healthier new takeaways or restricting chain fast-food outlets. The lack of robust evaluation is a barrier to wider adoption of these policies.
We will also explore how the planning system could address the large number of existing takeaways. Although current planning powers cannot affect them, this could change if businesses had to apply for planning permission more often. We will develop a computer model to estimate the long-term health impacts of these more ambitious planning reforms.
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About the Opportunity
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to research with direct relevance to government policy and population health. You will lead evaluations of national and local policies and I will encourage you to bring your own ideas to every stage of the research. In return, I will prioritise your personal and professional development. You will enjoy a high degree of autonomy, mentorship, access to networks across Cambridge and beyond, and dedicated funding for training and conferences. You will also work closely with colleagues in local authorities and national government, with opportunities to shape policy and practice.
Responsibilities
You will contribute to study design; collate secondary data, including from local authority planning portals; lead quantitative analyses (e.g. interrupted time series and difference-in-differences); collect and analyse qualitative data; integrate findings across methods; undertake public health modelling (e.g. using PRIME-time); publish first-author papers; and disseminate findings to academic, policy and practice audiences.
Requirements
You will hold a PhD in public health or a related discipline. The role would suit applicants with strong quantitative or qualitative expertise. If you have less experience in one area, you should demonstrate the ability and enthusiasm to develop new skills, as both qualitative and quantitative research will be central to the role. Experience using GIS to manage and map complex spatial data is essential, together with excellent communication, organisational and scientific writing skills.
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Details
The post is available for 48 months from Autumn 2026. Part-time and hybrid working requests are welcome. You will join a world-class research environment within IMS Epidemiology on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, working with a vibrant and supportive team committed to scientific excellence and real-world impact.
How to Apply
Please contact Prof Thomas Burgoine (tb464@medschl.cam.ac.uk) with informal enquiries.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
The closing date for applications is Monday 31 August 2026
The interview date for the role is to be confirmed
Please quote reference SJ50413 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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