Social Scientist: Qualitative Research Associate, INTERVAL Study (Fixed Term)

Department: Department of Public Health and Primary Care

Salary: £27,854-£36,298

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months full – time or possibly 24 months part-time 0.5, in the first instance.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a social scientist with relevant qualifications and experience to join a multidisciplinary team on a randomised controlled trial, INTERVAL. This 50,000-person study is funded by the UK Blood Service (NHSBT) and is investigating the impact of increased frequency of blood donation.

The post holder will be based in Cambridge and take a lead role in the design, implementation and analysis of INTERVAL's qualitative work-stream which is likely to consist of face to face and telephone interviews with donors, augmented by direct observation of blood donation at a sample of the main donation centres. They will work with the Investigators to identify specific research questions and appropriate methodologies to explore donor views and attitudes relating to increased donation, their beliefs and knowledge about blood, and ideas relating to iron deficiency. Under the guidance of Dr Simon Cohn, medical anthropologist, they will be expected to conduct the fieldwork with considerable independence and will analyse, interpret and write up findings in collaboration with other team members.

The post-holder will have: (1) relevant qualifications e.g. a PhD in sociology, social anthropology, or related discipline or substantial relevant research experience (2) a sound understanding of social science theory and the ability to use this in the interpretation of findings (3) previous experience in the design, conduct, analysis and publication of qualitative research related to health and medicine (4) high level report writing and presentational skills. The post-holder should also be able to work independently, accurately judge priorities, and have excellent organisational and communication skills.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Simon Cohn by email (simon.cohn@medschl.cam.ac.uk).

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Details of how to apply are available at http://www.phpc.cam.ac.uk/jobs/

Please quote reference RH01864 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Closing date: 06 November 2013

Interview date: w/c 18 November 2013.