This project, which is funded by the National Institute for Health Research, is the first of its kind, has national reach and importance, and represents the collaboration of multiple stakeholders across the academic, clinical, charitable and policy sectors. 

After the sudden death of their child, families often do not have ready access to support and care, and professionals supporting families can be at risk for mental distress and lack support. This is the first study focusing on really understanding experiences, needs and outcomes for families; and will develop recommendations for robust bereavement support and care. The role will mainly involve qualitative and quantitative data analysis and writing for publication, and report writing for the funder. The project has tangible outcomes that the data analysis and publication is feeding into, including development of new national policy to deliver meaningful impact on the lives of families and actual change in the organisation and delivery of services. 

What we can offer you

The University of Southampton provides a world-class research environment, with REF 2021 demonstrating that 92% of our research is world-leading or internationally excellent. We rank in the top 10% of UK universities and 4th in the Russell Group for research impact, with >97% of our research environment rated world-leading or internationally excellent. The School of Health Sciences ranks among the top three UK institutions for overall research quality.

The University of Southampton recognizes that research excellence emerges from diverse perspectives and inclusive collaboration. While we welcome all qualified applicants, we particularly encourage applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups, including Black and minority ethnic researchers, and disabled people. As a Disability Confident employer with bronze Athena SWAN recognition (University Silver Award status), we demonstrate sustained commitment to creating equitable opportunities across all career stages.

This role presents an exciting and challenging opportunity to drive influential research in a collaborative and supportive team environment. We embrace diversity and inclusion in our workplace and the research embodies that commitment. The role is ideal for someone with an interest in social justice and looking to make a real difference through rewarding research. It offers opportunities to use your qualitative and quantitative research skills, in a very complex topic, and to contribute to multiple publications. This role specifically looks for a researcher experienced in carrying out complex analyses and writing for publication. 

You will have a relevant research-related experience, and/or a PhD/MSc and a keen interest in the field of health and related areas of mental health and wellbeing. Excellent organisational and communication skills are also essential for this role.

The post will be at the level of Research Fellow. 

Informal enquiries are very welcome. Please contact Professor Anne-Sophie Darlington (A.Darlington@soton.ac.uk) or Dr Katherine Hunt (K.J.Hunt@soton.ac.uk) for further information.

Closing Date: 23 Nov 2026

Section: Education, Research & Enterprise

Salary: £37,369 to £41,885 Pro rata per annum
Part Time Fixed Term for 6 months(0.6FTE, 21 hours per week)

Candidates should have wide research experience in LTC/MLTC and have an interest or demonstrate relevant experience in applied health research projects and successful completion of research activities or projects including strong publications. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate an ability to organise teams, manage projects and design/deliver research strategy. Additionally, the candidate will need to show evidence of successful management of their own workload, plan research activities to a high standard and to deadlines and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Knowledge, experience and understanding of challenges in MLTC, national initiatives in MLTC research, research implementation and work with local authorities would be an important advantage.

Closing Date: 12 Nov 2026

Section: Education, Research & Enterprise

Salary: £46,970 to £59,390 Per Annum
Full Time Fixed Term until 30/09/2029

Candidates should have research experience in LTC/MLTC and have an interest or demonstrate relevant experience in applied health research projects and successful completion of research activities or projects including publications. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate an ability to organise their own workload, plan research activities to a high standard and to deadlines and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Knowledge, experience and understanding of personalised care and training, research implementation and work with local authorities would be an advantage.

Closing Date: 11 Nov 2026

Section: Education, Research & Enterprise

Salary: £37,369 to £45,641 Pro rata per annum
Part Time Fixed Term until 30/09/2029 (21 hours per week)