Research Fellow in HIV and Sexual Health (UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

The Opportunity

The HIV and Sexual Health team within the Brighton and Sussex Centre for Global Health Research is seeking a skilled and motivated Research Fellow to contribute to high-impact clinical research focused on people living with HIV.

Based at Brighton and Sussex Medical School, this role offers the opportunity to work at the interface of academic research and NHS clinical practice. You will be part of a collaborative research team designing, delivering and analysing clinical studies that aim to improve health outcomes, inform public health strategies, and address inequalities in HIV care.

This post combines hands-on clinical research with data analysis and stakeholder engagement. It is ideal for someone who values rigorous research, patient-centred approaches, and real-world impact.

What You Will Be Doing

• Supporting the design, coordination and delivery of clinical research studies involving people living with HIV.
• Recruiting participants within UK NHS clinical settings.
• Conducting quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis.
• Contributing to publications, reports and dissemination activities.
• Working collaboratively with clinicians, academics and external partners.
• Ensuring research governance and ethical compliance throughout all study phases.

All research activity will be conducted in accordance with:

• UK policy on HIV testing and care
• NHS research governance frameworks
• UK data protection legislation (UK GDPR)
• Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidance
• Public health guidance on sexual health services

About You

We are looking for a researcher who combines methodological expertise with sensitivity to the lived experiences of people affected by HIV.

You will bring:

• A PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., global health, public health, epidemiology, or a related field).
• Demonstrable experience in HIV research, including quantitative and/or qualitative methods.
• Experience recruiting participants within UK NHS clinical environments.
• Confidence in managing datasets and interpreting findings.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to contribute effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.
• Desirable experience includes involvement in HIV advocacy, community engagement, or patient support initiatives.

About the School

Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) is a partnership between the University of Sussex and the University of Brighton, working closely with NHS organisations across South-East England.

BSMS is recognised for:

• Excellence in medical education.
• A strong translational and applied research portfolio.
• Commitment to inclusive practice and sustainability.
• A Gold Athena Swan Award for advancing gender equality.

The School fosters a collaborative culture where academics, clinicians, technical specialists and professional services staff work together to improve patient care locally and globally.

Our HIV and Sexual Health research aims to:

• Improve clinical management and treatment pathways.
• Address health inequalities.
• Advance understanding of biomedical and behavioural aspects of HIV.
• Support more personalised and equitable healthcare delivery.

Working Environment

Located near the South Downs National Park and adjacent to Falmer Station, the campus offers:

• Excellent public transport links.
• A supportive research-led academic environment.
• Flexible working options (subject to business need).
• Access to staff development and wellbeing initiatives.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse academic community. Applications are particularly encouraged from women and Black and minority ethnic candidates, who remain under-represented in STEMM academic roles.

Eligibility

Although this role has an eligible SOC code, it does not meet the salary and hours threshold for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship due to its part-time nature.

All work must be undertaken within the United Kingdom.

Informal Enquiries

For further information, please contact:
Jaime Vera Rojas – j.vera@bsms.ac.uk

Prospective applicants are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the HIV and Sexual Health research portfolio at BSMS prior to applying.