Senior Research Associate in Randomised Trials Methodology, School of Social and Community Medicine

This post offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced mixed methods health service researcher with a working knowledge of randomised controlled trials to contribute to the MRC ConDuCT II (Collaboration and innovation in Difficult and Complex randomised controlled Trials In Invasive procedures, http://www.bris.ac.uk/social-community-medicine/centres/conduct2/) Hub for Trial Methodology Research (HTMR) directed by Professor Jane Blazeby. The Hub aims to develop methodological research of relevance to pragmatic RCTs in general, but with a particular focus on RCTs in surgery. The Hub research is focused across four themes: i) prioritisation and design of trials for cost effectiveness analysis; ii) integrative and dynamic research methods to optimise recruitment to RCTs; iii) Feasibility And Conduct of Trials (FACT); and iv) outcomes in RCTs: selection, reporting and integration in decision making. This post will be focused on the work of theme three, Feasibility And Conduct of Trials, which is led by Professor Jane Blazeby and Dr Athene Lane.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge and previous experience of working in the context of feasibility and pilot trials or phase III trials, a PhD in health services research or in a related discipline, and an interest in both qualitative and quantitative research methods applied to health service research. An interest in, and appreciation of, the issues faced in the conduct of pragmatic trials is also desirable. In addition experience of successful collaboration for grant funding and publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals will be valuable for this role.

The successful candidate will work across several ongoing and new projects aiming to enhance feasibility study design and trial conduct. Specific projects will include scoping work to inform the development of a grant application to look at clinician engagement in trials using semi-structured interviews and observations. The role will also involve contributing to ongoing analyses across Hub projects, and liaising with colleagues (across all themes within and outside the University and colleagues in other MRC Hubs) to develop research ideas that meet the Hub aims and seek funding for these. Ongoing projects include research optimising trial monitoring committees and training of trial site staff.

The successful candidate will be a capable, hard-working motivated individual, who is able to work both under their own initiative and as part of a multi-disciplinary team. Excellent organisational, management and communication skills are required for this role, including the ability to develop grant applications and write up work for publication.

For informal enquiries please contact Prof. Jane Blazeby (J.M.Blazeby@bristol.ac.uk) or Dr Athene Lane (enquiry-brtc@bristol.ac.uk)

The University is committed to creating and sustaining a fully inclusive culture.  We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities.