Assistant Professor – Qualitative Research in Health Screening

About the role

The position supports the NIHR‑funded Service Evaluation of Newborn Screening for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SENS) by leading the qualitative acceptability workstream. The successful candidate will collect, manage and analyse qualitative data across seven English regions using a stepped‑wedge trial design.

Key responsibilities

• Design and conduct sensitive interviews and focus groups with patients, families and health professionals.
• Manage large volumes of qualitative data and perform analysis using NVivo.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary research team to integrate findings into the wider study.
• Produce high‑quality research outputs, including reports, journal articles and presentations.
• Travel to study sites for in‑person data collection as required.

Required profile

• Experienced qualitative researcher with a background in health screening, maternity care or a related field.
• PhD or equivalent research experience.
• Proven ability to conduct sensitive interviews and focus groups.
• Highly organised, excellent communicator and able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel for data collection.

Required skills

• Qualitative research methods.
• NVivo software for data management and analysis.
• Interview and focus‑group facilitation.
• Academic writing and dissemination.

What we offer

• Flexible working arrangements, including part‑time or job‑share options.
• Opportunity to work within a world‑leading research‑intensive university.
• Engagement with a high‑impact national health screening study.