We are the University of Cumbria, for and from Cumbria and our localities, rooted in serving our communities, with people, place and partnership at our heart.

Now is a very exciting time to be joining us because we are delivering a new "Towards 2030" strategic plan focused on making the most of our three most valuable assets; People, Place and Partnerships, to become a catalyst for economic well-being for our region, nationally and internationally.

The Institute of Health is looking to recruit a Research Fellow to work with a team of researchers and partner organisations undertaking a Realist Economic Evaluation of a family intervention. The evaluation is being funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research Three Schools Prevention Research Programme.

We invite applications from researchers with experience of Realist Evaluation methodology and approaches, and an interest in supporting children and families.

The successful applicant will work collaboratively with the research team, external partners, stakeholders, and the public to support the development and delivery of the research project. They will be involved in all aspects of the evaluation, including literature reviewing; data collection, analysis and review; reporting, dissemination and knowledge mobilisation.

The Research Fellow will be based at our Fusehill Street campus in Carlisle but will be required to undertake research activities in West Cumbria where public transport is often limited – there is the option of working from the offices of our research partner the Cumbria Community Foundation who are based near Cockermouth.

Please note, this role is fixed term until the 2 October 2026.

Informal Enquiries: Dr Elaine Bidmead | NIHR ARC NENC Senior Research Fellow | elaine.bidmead@cumbria.ac.uk

The University of Cumbria seeks innovative, creative, high-quality researchers, and scholars to foster a culture of exploration, discovery and intellectual challenge that generates international recognition, respect and engagement. In return, the University offers an attractive benefits package including 35 days' annual leave plus bank holidays.

For more information about the University of Cumbria, click here.