Applications are invited for an enthusiastic and highly motivated Senior Research Associate to work within the Digital Social Care theme of the new EPSRC Digital Economy Research Centre (DERC) (http://tinyurl.com/epsrc-derc) at Newcastle University. You will work under the leadership of co-investigator Professor Barbara Hanratty (Institute of Health and Society) and in collaboration with theme co-investigators Dr Katie Brittain (Institute of Health and Society), Dr John Vines (Open Lab) and Professor Rob Wilson (Newcastle Business School) as well as other DERC co-investigators and researchers (25 research associates overall led by Principal Investigator Professor Patrick Olivier, Open Lab, Newcastle University). 

You will be responsible for planning and delivering an action-oriented programme of cross-disciplinary research into new approaches to digital social care. You will have expertise in qualitative research or mixed methods, and some experience in research relating to older adults. 

You will have a PhD in social sciences or health services research, with a strong track record of publication in high ranking journals in your field.

This is an exciting opportunity to develop research that will produce a demonstrable impact on the lives of older people. You will be encouraged to think creatively and contribute their own ideas, joining a team including design and technology experts, to develop real world solutions for some of the most pressing problems in older adult care. Particular areas of interest include the use of digital technology to: (a) identify older adults with increasing social care needs; (b) tackle loneliness and social isolation amongst older people and (c) link and support social care workers and communities to enhance quality of care.

You will be collocated with the DERC team of 25 postdoctoral researchers (at Open Lab, Newcastle University). This post would ideally suit individuals who already have an expertise in research relevant to older adults and interest in the design, development and evaluation of real-world interventions for which digital technologies are a key element.

The focus of this position is on research excellence and there will be no obligatory teaching responsibilities although opportunities will be made available to support the post-holder’s career development.

Tenable for 3 years (with the possibility of extension by a further 2 years).

Further information can be obtained by contacting Professor Barbara Hanratty (Barbara.hanratty@ncl.ac.uk)

The Institute of Health & Society is committed to supporting equality and diversity for all staff and students. Applications for part time/flexible working will be considered; please state your desired working arrangements in your application.

The Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award in addition to the University’s bronze Athena SWAN award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality, and the University holds the HR Excellence in Research award for our work to support the career development of our researchers. We are also a member of the Euraxess network.

Information about the Institute is available at www.ncl.ac.uk/his