Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Faculty of Health and Life Sciences wishes to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Associate. This NIHR funded post is available from the 1/12/25 to the 30/9/2027.

We welcome applications from candidates interested in working part-time hours or job-sharing arrangements.

The post

The PROSPER programme is a physiotherapist delivered rehabilitation programme for patients following breast cancer that has been shown to be both clinically and cost-effective in a large NIHR funded Trail. To improve access by patients to the PROSPER programme and optimise implementation of the programme, we are developing and evaluating a digital version of the PROSPER programme (Digital PROSPER).

The successful application will undertake the planned research related to the development and evaluation of Digital PROSPER.

The post will include:

• 1) Literature review: Undertake a mixed methods systematic literature review to estimate the effectiveness of all types of digital rehabilitation interventions following breast cancer treatment and identify intervention components associated with effective interventions. We will review the broader literature including clinical guidelines regarding prehabilitation.
• 2) Co-design: Undertake co-design with our working group of patients and clinicians to develop the digital application.
• 3) Usability testing: Undertake usability testing of the prototype versions of digital PROSPER with up to 20 patients to produce the near final products.

About you

The successful applicant will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically and prepare proposals and applications to external bodies.

Applicants will possess a relevant PhD (or nearing completion) or possess an equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes. Applicants will be able to complete a mixed methods systematic review, lead the co-design of the development of a digital health intervention and undertake usability testing.

What we can offer you

• Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines to produce internationally exciting research;
• Support teams that understand the University wide research and teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly;
• An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics providing specialist support for external engagement and development;
• Our Exeter Academic initiative supporting high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career;
• A multitude of staff benefits including sector leading benefits around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), Paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay), and a Fertility Treatment Policy;
• A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon.

We are proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from service people.

Further information

For further information please contact Dr Esther Williamson, Senior Research Fellow, email e.williamson2@exeter.ac.uk

The closing date for completed applications is 8th October 2025.