Research Assistant/Associate in the safer management of long-term conditions (LTCs) in disadvantaged (Newcastle, GB)

Here's a professional review of the job description for a Research Assistant/Associate at Newcastle University:

An Exciting Opportunity in Public Health Research at Newcastle University

Newcastle University presents a compelling opportunity for dedicated and skilled researchers to join their esteemed NIHR Patient Safety Research Collaborative (PSRC). This role is ideal for individuals with a passion for quantitative analysis and a keen interest in the impact of disadvantage on patient safety, health, and care outcomes, particularly in the context of long-term conditions and cancer. This is a chance to contribute to an often-overlooked yet critical area of research and significantly advance your career in applied health service research.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Research: You'll be working on projects with the potential to directly influence patient safety and health inequalities, making a tangible difference in real-world healthcare.
• Career Development: The position offers substantial opportunities for professional growth. You will be encouraged to shape research direction, lead quantitative analyses, support publications, present findings to diverse audiences, and contribute to future funding bids. Involvement in public and patient involvement activities, as well as exposure to other research methodologies, will further broaden your skillset.
• Access to Leading Networks: Integration into the PSRC, Fuse: Centre for Translational Research in Public Health, and the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration provides access to a rich ecosystem of expertise and collaborative opportunities.
• Generous Benefits Package: Newcastle University is recognized for its excellent employee benefits, including a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance (with the option to purchase more), excellent pension schemes, and comprehensive health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Exceptional Resources: You will gain hands-on experience with large, national health service and population datasets, such as the Clinical Practice Research Datalink, a critical skill for any modern health researcher.
• Supportive Environment: The role offers the chance to work within supportive multidisciplinary teams, engaging with experienced researchers and contributing to the vibrant academic community at Newcastle University.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Quantitative Expertise is Crucial: A strong background in quantitative methods, statistical analysis, and programming (specifically R or Stata) is essential. Candidates should be comfortable handling and analyzing large, complex routine healthcare data.
• Research Focus: The primary focus is on health and care outcomes and safety issues related to cancer and long-term conditions, with a strong emphasis on health inequalities. Familiarity with these areas, or a demonstrable interest and ability to acquire this knowledge rapidly, is important.
• Location and Working Style: While there might be flexibility for blended working, the role is campus-based, requiring a significant presence at Newcastle University. Candidates should be prepared for this expectation.
• Academic Progression: The role is advertised for a fixed term from Spring 2026 to March 2028, offering a concentrated period of impactful work and skill development. The distinction between Research Assistant and Research Associate levels is tied to qualifications and experience, with a Master's degree (for Assistant) and a PhD (for Associate) being key differentiators.
• Contribution to Dissemination: A key aspect of the role involves supporting the dissemination of research findings through publications, conference presentations, and engagement with decision-makers, requiring strong communication skills.

This position at Newcastle University is more than just a job; it's a pathway to becoming a leader in health services research. If you possess strong quantitative skills, a passion for improving patient safety and reducing health inequalities, and are eager to grow within a supportive and research-intensive environment, this opportunity is certainly worth exploring.