Research Associate, University of Sunderland

Review of the Research Associate Position at the University of Sunderland: An Opportunity to Drive Health Equity in Prostate Cancer Research

The University of Sunderland, a distinguished institution recognized as a top 30 UK university, is embarking on an exciting new phase of development. Known for its commitment to life-changing opportunities and an inclusive culture, the university offers a vibrant environment for both students and staff. This review focuses on a compelling Research Associate role within the PROCAN-B+ study, an initiative designed to significantly impact prostate cancer early diagnosis, particularly within Black communities.

This fixed-term, on-campus position, commencing March 1st, 2026, for a duration of 30 months, presents a unique chance for a motivated researcher to contribute to a vital public health project. The role offers a competitive salary between £38,786 and £46,049, reflecting the importance and expertise required for this impactful work.

Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Meaningful Impact: This role places you at the forefront of tackling a critical health inequality. The PROCAN-B+ study directly addresses the disproportionately higher risk of prostate cancer diagnosis and mortality among Black African and Caribbean men. Your work will directly contribute to developing and testing an intervention aimed at encouraging early diagnosis and saving lives.
• Collaborative and Multi-Institutional Environment: You will become an integral part of an exciting, multidisciplinary team. This includes collaboration with academic institutions, clinical professionals, and crucial community partners, providing a rich and diverse networking opportunity and exposure to various perspectives within research.
• Grounded in Previous Success: This project builds upon the foundation of the original PROCAN-B study, which successfully co-designed an intervention with the community. This follow-on study offers the chance to test and refine this intervention, contributing to evidence-based practice.
• Comprehensive Research Experience: The role encompasses a broad spectrum of research activities, including intervention delivery, data collection, rigorous data analysis, and impactful dissemination of findings. This provides an excellent opportunity to hone a wide range of research skills.
• Supportive University Environment: The University of Sunderland fosters a culture of inclusivity and well-being. As an employee, you will benefit from a generous annual leave package (36 days plus 5 closure days and 8 bank holidays), a robust pension scheme, and access to a comprehensive "My Lifestyle Benefits Platform" offering discounts and exclusive schemes.
• Focus on Well-being: The university demonstrates a strong commitment to staff health and well-being through discounted private medical insurance, health cash plans, financial well-being guidance, and discounted access to the state-of-the-art CitySpace Fitness facility.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Required Qualifications and Experience: A PhD (or near completion) in public health or a related social science field (e.g., health psychology, sociology, anthropology) is essential. Candidates with prior experience in health research, particularly in trial management, cancer, screening, or health inequalities, will be strongly considered. The exclusion of lab-based biomedical sciences highlights the study's focus on social and behavioral aspects of health.
• Research Skillset: While not explicitly mandatory, a strong foundation in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies is highly desirable. This role will require you to leverage these skills effectively to gather and interpret diverse data.
• Interpersonal and Communication Skills: As a key member of a diverse team, excellent communication skills are paramount. You will need to effectively present research progress and outcomes to a variety of audiences, including academic peers, clinical professionals, and community stakeholders.
• Independent and Team-Oriented Approach: The role demands a self-motivated individual capable of working independently, yet also a collaborative team player who can contribute positively to group dynamics.
• Fixed-Term Nature: This is a 30-month fixed-term contract. Candidates should consider how this aligns with their long-term career aspirations and whether they are seeking a role with a defined project duration.

This Research Associate position at the University of Sunderland offers a significant opportunity for researchers passionate about public health and dedicated to reducing health disparities. By joining the PROCAN-B+ study, you will contribute to impactful research within a supportive and forward-thinking academic institution, advancing your career while making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities.