Research Fellow in Preventing illicit substance use

We are seeking to appoint a Research Fellow to join our NIHR-funded Project Preventing illicit substance use: a mixed-methods evaluation of a schools-based Theatre-in-Education intervention, jointly led by University of Brighton and East Sussex County Council and. This post will be based at the University of Brighton. The post is fixed term until 30 September 2025.
The project will explore whether a package of school lessons and theatre performance are a good way for young people aged 12 - 14 years to learn about drug misuse, how to manage peer pressure, and learn health promoting behaviours. Our Theatre-in-Education (TiE) approach should help pupils to engage more deeply into the issues of drug risks.
The research will involve the participation of pupils, teachers and parents/carers to help shape the way the work is carried out. Young people from local schools will be trained so that they can join a Young People's Advisory Group (YPAG) and actively take part in the project.
We are interested in hearing from you if you have an interest in school-based research, employing qualitative methods and working closely with our multidisciplinary team.
What we are looking for in applicants:
o A relevant degree in social sciences, psychology, public health or a related discipline
o Sufficient, up to date breadth or depth of specialist knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes and evidence of commitment to engage in continuous professional development.
o Experience of research on interventions in institutional settings, including questionnaire-based research.
o Competent IT skills including Microsoft Office and Excel, SPSS or similar statistical software.
o Experience in real world, and participatory research and (e.g. an empirical research project) in settings such as educational institutions, social or health care settings institutions, social or health care settings.
What we offer:
o Work on a highly innovative research project with a multi-disciplinary team from University of Brighton, East Sussex County Council and other partners.
o A vibrant research environment, focused on real-world issues through applied research and being at the forefront of intervention and methods research (e.g. realist evaluation).
o Opportunities to develop your skills and be part of dissemination activities.
Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Prof Jörg Huber at email: j.huber@brighton.ac.uk.

It is likely that interviews will take place in early January, and the successful applicant should be able to start within two months of that date, and an enhanced DBS check will be required for this role.