Research Associate (Qualitive)

Research Associate (Qualitative)

The University of Manchester - Division of Population Health, Health Services Research And Primary Care

We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Research Associate (Qualitative) within the Health Organisation, Policy and Economics (HOPE) research group. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-quality, policy-relevant research focused on health and care systems and commissioning, working closely with academic colleagues and policymakers in a dynamic and inclusive research environment.

This post is part of the NIHR Policy Research Unit in Health and Care Systems and Commissioning (PRUComm) and is based within the Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health. The role is full time and fixed term from 1 August 2026 to 31 October 2027.

You will be responsible for:

• Undertaking high-quality qualitative research as part of PRUComm projects
• Designing and conducting interviews, focus groups, observations and case study research
• Analysing qualitative data independently and collaboratively using appropriate methods and software
• Writing academic papers, project reports and policy-focused outputs
• Engaging with policymakers and stakeholders and presenting findings to diverse audiences

About You

Essential Criteria:

• A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant social science or health-related discipline
• Significant experience of qualitative research, including data collection and analysis
• Good understanding of the English NHS, including policy, commissioning and service delivery
• A strong track record of producing high-quality written outputs, including peer-reviewed publications
• Excellent communication, organisational and collaborative working skills

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience of qualitative research with senior or elite stakeholders
• Experience of mixed-methods research
• Experience contributing to research grant applications
• Experience researching organisational or policy aspects of health or social care in England