Job Description
About the Team
You will be joining the Behavioural Science and Early Diagnosis of Cancer Group – a multidisciplinary research team dedicated to understanding how people make decisions about cancer screening and early diagnosis. Our work spans communication, decision-making, patient experience, and the psychological and social factors influencing participation in screening programmes. Our research is funded by prestigious bodies including the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), Cancer Research UK, and the International Cancer Alliance for Early Detection (ACED).
Role Summary
This role is part of the International Alliance on Early Detection of Cancer (ACED) — a collaborative, global programme that brings together researchers, clinicians, and community partners to improve early cancer detection. You will contribute to impactful research that identifies barriers to early diagnosis and helps design community-informed behavioural interventions.
Your work will influence how health systems understand and reduce inequalities in cancer outcomes — particularly in primary care settings where initial contact between patients and health services occurs.
Key Responsibilities
Research & Development
- Lead the design and evaluation of behavioural vignettes to examine real-world help-seeking behaviour and barriers.
- Analyse data using rigorous quantitative methods, including advanced longitudinal and causal techniques.
Collaborative Engagement
- Work closely with patients, public panels, and healthcare professionals through co-design workshops and simulations that shape interventions together.
- Build effective recruitment strategies that ensure diverse community participation — including online platforms and mobile research units.
Knowledge Sharing & Dissemination
- Publish findings in high-impact academic journals and present at conferences.
- Coordinate public engagement and knowledge exchange activities to ensure research reaches both academic and community audiences.
Who We’re Looking For
We seek a highly motivated researcher with:
- A PhD in statistics, medical statistics, epidemiology, quantitative social science or a related discipline (or close to submission).
- Strong experience analysing cohort or population data using advanced statistical approaches.
- Clear and effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Ability to manage and deliver research outputs to deadline.
If you do not yet have your PhD but are close to submission, we will consider a Grade 6B appointment with a pathway to Grade 7 once your thesis is submitted.
UCL operates under standard Terms and Conditions for research and professional services staff
Why This Research Matters
Cancer screening and early diagnosis are core components of the UK’s public health strategy to reduce cancer mortality. NHS cancer screening programmes — including cervical, breast, and bowel screening — are proven to detect cancers earlier and enable more effective treatment. People eligible for these programmes are encouraged to participate because early detection significantly improves outcomes. (See NHS overview of screening programmes)
The NHS has plans to eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040 through a combination of screening and vaccination programmes, highlighting the importance of equitable uptake across populations.
Cancer screening data are systematically published and monitored to ensure quality, coverage, and improvements across demographic groups, with annual reports tracking performance indicators across all national programmes.
Behavioural research like this plays a crucial role in understanding inequalities in participation, such as how socio-economic status, access barriers, cultural beliefs, and communication impact whether people attend screening or seek help promptly. These inequalities are recognised by public health bodies as key drivers of uneven outcomes across different communities.
Beyond screening, broader cancer policy and implementation strategies are outlined on public health resources that describe how early detection supports improved survival and reduced health inequities.
Salary & Contract Details
This position is funded until 31 December 2027 in the first instance, with the appointment at Grade 7 dependent on the candidate holding a PhD. If the PhD is not yet completed, an initial appointment at Grade 6B is possible. When the PhD thesis is submitted (with no corrections), salary will be backdated to Grade 7 rates. Salaries include London Allowance.
This role supports eligibility for a Skilled Worker Visa or Global Talent Visa under current UK Visas and Immigration legislation, and UCL is able to sponsor where appropriate.
Benefits
As a UCL staff member you will receive:
Diversity & Inclusion
UCL is committed to building a richly diverse community. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including:
Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of commitment to gender equity and inclusive practices.
How to Apply
Prepare your application using the person specification to detail how you meet essential and desirable criteria. Use your personal statement section to illustrate your experience and motivation.
