Research Associate in Exercise Diet and Obesity-related Chronic Disease

Loughborough University - School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences

Location: Loughborough University, Loughborough, Hybrid/On-site

Salary: From £35,608 Specialist and Supporting Academic Research grade 6. Subject to annual pay award.

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 14th October 2025

Closes: 2nd November 2025

Job Ref: REQ250926

Full Time, Fixed term until 31 March 2028

The ideal candidate for this Research Associate position will hold a PhD in a field related to obesity or obesity-related disease, with a strong background in exercise physiology and/or metabolism. They will have proven experience conducting clinical research with human participants, including laboratory-based assessments and biochemical sample analysis, alongside competence in advanced quantitative methods, statistical packages (Stata or R), and systematic review/meta-analysis.

The successful applicant will demonstrate an excellent understanding of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and chronic liver disease, as well as evidence of authoring high-quality publications and contributing to research funding applications. Strong organisational, interpersonal, and communication skills are essential, together with the ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and collaborate effectively with colleagues and PhD students.

Phlebotomy training, experience supporting clinical trials, and enthusiasm for contributing to new research ideas, public engagement, and grant development will further distinguish the ideal candidate.

This full-time post is offered on a fixed-term contract until 31st March 2028.

For more information on the role please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr James King, Reader in Clinical Exercise Science, via email to J.A.King@lboro.ac.uk.

Loughborough University is committed to allowing its employees to work dynamically with a combination of working on campus and remotely, where possible. This has been identified as a role that could work dynamically and, if successful, your line manager will discuss these informal arrangements with you. Please note that there is a general expectation that the successful candidate will spend the majority of time working on the Loughborough campus.