Research Fellow in Psychiatric Epidemiology

We are seeking an outstanding postdoctoral research fellow in psychiatric epidemiology, causal inference methods in epidemiology, biostatistics or a similarly quantitatively-focussed discipline to undertake rigorous quantitative analysis of population-based longitudinal surveys and routinely collected health data. They will apply causal inference methods such as Bayesian hierarchical interrupted time series and difference-in-difference models, inverse probability weighting, g-methods, instrumental variable analyses, causal mediation, positive and negative control outcomes, propensity score methods including regression discontinuity, and natural experiments including discordant sibling methods, Mendelian randomisation and other quasi-experimental approaches. They will evaluate research questions that both (1) strengthen the evidence base around the social determinants of mental health, and (2) examine the effects of policy or public health interventions on mental health, using UK-based datasets. The postholder will be able to develop and consolidate their experience of applying causal inference methods to longitudinal survey data and routinely-collected health data. They will will draft manuscripts for publication, present research findings at meetings and conferences. They will be given opportunities to develop and pursue their own research questions within the UK context on issues pertinent to the PMH Cluster.

The post is suitable for a postdoctoral researcher (Grade 7) trained in epidemiology, statistics, or a closely-related quantitative discipline. Experience applying causal inference methods to answer public mental health research questions, using population-based longitudinal survey data and/or routinely collected health data would be a significant advantage. The post is a good opportunity to take a leading role in writing peer reviewed publications that are relevant to national policy and practice. The post is available for up to 24 months in the first instance, subject to UCL's mandatory probation period. There may be opportunities to extend the post length, subject to performance. The post is available to start from 1 February 2025 (or potentially sooner for a suitable redeployment candidate).

The UCL Division of Psychiatry, located within the Faculty of Brain Sciences, is a world-renowned centre of excellence in mental health research. Our mission is to improve mental health through cutting-edge research and education. By leveraging insights from basic science, we address clinical problems with the aim of improving patient outcomes and public health. Moreover, we take pride in delivering innovative teaching that is directly relevant to clinical practice and informed by our research. Join our team and help us drive forward the field of mental health research and education. This post contributes to the Data, Linkages and Causal Inference platform within the UKRI-funded Population Health Improvement (PHI-UK) Population Mental Health Cluster, which aims to bring together stakeholders with diverse expertise and from different backgrounds to generate research for new, innovative and interdisciplinary solutions that take a public health approach to understanding and preventing inequalities in experiencing poor mental health.

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:

• 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• On-Site nursery
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
Discounted medical insurance The full range of staff benefits can be found here: Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion As London's Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world's talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL's workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. The Division of Psychiatry prides itself for operating in an all-inclusive environment. Teamwork is highly valued, individual strengths are recognised and celebrated, and there is a commitment to advancing the careers of everyone, regardless of gender or role. We aim to provide a family friendly environment where both women and men feel able to take the time they need for family. The Athena SWAN Charter recognises commitment to advancing women's careers in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment in academia and the Division is delighted to have an Athena Swan Silver Award since 2022. All staff are invited to contribute to EDI initiatives within the Division to contribute to improving working conditions and opportunities for all. Mentoring is a crucial part of supporting career progression and mentoring schemes are available for staff in the Division. You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here: Available documents