Research Fellow

University of Birmingham - AI and Digital Health Research & Policy Group / Department of Applied Health Sciences

Contract Type:
Fixed Term contract up to December 2028

Background

To create and disseminate knowledge through initiating and conducting original research and through publication, as appropriate to the disciplinary area.

The AI and Digital Health Research & Policy Group, led by Professor Alastair Denniston, is internationally recognised for its work on the regulation, evaluation, and responsible use of AI‑enabled health technologies. The group collaborates with national regulators, global organisations, academic institutions, and industry partners to advance regulatory science and support the safe, equitable deployment of AI in healthcare. It also has significant experience in developing innovative postgraduate education programmes in this field.

The University of Birmingham is the UK lead for SAFER‑MH, a major Wellcome Trust‑funded programme aimed at improving the safety, governance, and regulation of AI‑enabled (mental) health technologies in Sub‑Saharan Africa. Working with partners including PATH, SAHPRA, MHRA, and the African Medicines Agency, the programme brings together regulatory science, policy analysis, and capacity strengthening across multiple workstreams.

This Senior Research Fellow will lead the workstream focused on strengthening AI‑related regulatory capacity across Africa, including the development and delivery of a structured training programme (CPD and PGCert‑level) for regulatory authorities. The role involves close collaboration with regulatory bodies and university partners across Africa, ensuring alignment with wider programme findings. The post holder will apply mixed‑methods approaches to assess capacity needs, develop research‑informed learning materials, and coordinate contributions from multiple international partners. They will oversee production and quality assurance of training assets, support accreditation and governance processes, engage with regulatory and academic stakeholders, and contribute to dissemination across professional and policy audiences. The role requires strong communication skills, experience managing complex multi‑partner workstreams, and the ability to work effectively across cultures and institutions. Familiarity with LMIC regulatory systems and experience in curriculum development would be advantageous.

Role Summary

• Initiate and conduct original research which has measurable outcomes and is reflected in a growing national and often incipient international reputation
• Plan, design and co-ordinate research activities and programmes
• Contribute to the development of research strategies

Main Duties

To plan and carry out research, using appropriate methodology and techniques. This may include, where appropriate to the discipline:

• Pursue personal research including developing research ideas and winning support, including financial support
• Plan, publish and/or execute high quality research
• Project manage research activities, and/or supervise other research staff
• Present high quality findings in publications and conference proceedings

Person Specification

• Normally, a higher degree relevant to the research area (normally PhD) or equivalent qualifications
• Extensive research experience and scholarship within subject specialism
• Experience and achievement reflected in a growing reputation
• Extensive experience and demonstrated success in planning, undertaking and project managing research to deliver high quality results

Informal enquiries to Jeffry Hogg, email: j.hogg.1@bham.ac.uk