Job Description
Research Fellow in Evidence Synthesis — Role Overview
The Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health at University College London is seeking a Research Fellow to contribute to internationally significant work exploring how social and behavioural factors shape health outcomes. The department brings together interdisciplinary expertise to address major public health challenges such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, substance use, and obesity.
This post sits within the Social Biobehavioural Research Group, led by Daisy Fancourt. The group examines how social experiences including loneliness, isolation, cultural participation, and community engagement influence wellbeing and long-term health. The work bridges social science, behavioural research, and policy development to generate evidence that informs practice across health systems.
Project Context
The successful candidate will join a €2 million Horizon-funded European collaboration investigating how arts and cultural engagement affect health. The programme includes partnerships with international bodies such as UNESCO and the World Health Organization.
A core responsibility will be leading a portfolio of systematic evidence syntheses. These reviews will inform interactive evidence gap maps, policy briefs, and research summaries designed for policymakers and practitioners across Europe.
Key Responsibilities
You will:
- Lead multiple large-scale systematic reviews of quantitative research
- Develop and manage PROSPERO registrations
- Conduct structured literature searches
- Extract and manage study data using specialist tools (e.g., Covidence, Rayyan, Elicit)
- Appraise research quality and synthesize findings
- Produce peer-reviewed manuscripts and policy-facing reports
- Work with technical teams to translate findings into digital evidence platforms
- Support development of policy briefs and stakeholder communications
- The role requires excellent organisation, strong analytical skills, and the ability to meet deadlines in a collaborative research environment.
Contract & Salary
- Fixed-term from April 2026 to March 2028
- Grade 7 salary: £43,981–£52,586 (London weighting included)
- Candidates awaiting PhD completion may begin at Grade 6B with salary uplift upon final thesis submission
- The role is eligible for UK visa sponsorship.
Candidate Profile
You should have:
- A PhD in psychology, social science, biomedical science, or a related discipline
- Demonstrable experience leading systematic reviews
- Familiarity with evidence synthesis software tools
- Strong academic writing and communication skills
- Ability to manage complex projects independently
Benefits & Working Environment
This post offers a comprehensive employment package, including:
- 41 days total annual leave
- Defined benefit pension scheme
- Flexible leave purchase options
- Cycle-to-work and travel support
- Immigration assistance
- On-site childcare and gym access
- Enhanced parental leave provisions
- Employee wellbeing services
The department actively promotes equity and inclusion and holds recognition under the Athena SWAN framework for advancing gender equality.
Government Resources (Relevant External Links)
These official UK government resources may be helpful for applicants:
- Skilled Worker Visa overview
- Global Talent Visa guidance
- UK employment rights
- Workplace pensions guidance
- Equality and workplace protections