Postdoctoral Research Associate
This full-time role is available from 1 August 2026. This post is offered as a fixed term contract and is funded by AMS Springboard until 31 July 2028.
Salary Details
Salary will be £34,610 up to £39,906, per annum subject to knowledge, skills and experience.
The post
The Faculty wishes to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support the work of Jan Vollert, PhD. This post is available from 1st of August 2026 until 31st of July 2028 on a fixed term contract. The successful applicant will contribute to the analysis of a large existing longitudinal dataset using deep mechanistic phenotyping approaches within a biopsychosocial framework. The work will involve quantifying the impact of genetic, clinical, psychological, lifestyle, and functional predictors on pain outcomes; investigating temporal changes in pain and associated comorbidities, including mental health conditions; and performing longitudinal and time-dependent analyses of pain trajectories and quality-of-life outcomes. The postholder will also develop statistical and predictive models to examine transitions between pain states and comorbid conditions, integrating multidimensional clinical and behavioural data to improve understanding of pain mechanisms and long-term outcomes.
The post will include independent and collaborative research activities, including advanced statistical analysis of longitudinal health data, development of predictive and trajectory models, interpretation of complex multidimensional datasets, and preparation of scientific manuscripts and conference presentations. The successful applicant will also contribute to interdisciplinary collaborations, support dissemination of findings, and participate in the wider research activities of the group.
About you
The successful applicant will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically and prepare proposals and applications to external bodies.
Applicants will possess a relevant PhD (or nearing completion) or possess an equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes. Applicants will have
- Experience or strong interest in pain research and biopsychosocial approaches to health
- Understanding of statistical methods and longitudinal data analysis, with willingness to further develop advanced analytical skills
- Interest in working with large and complex health datasets
- Ability to collaborate within interdisciplinary research teams
- Strong motivation to further develop independent research skills under supervision and mentorship
- Good scientific writing and communication skills, demonstrated by publications or poster or oral presentations at international meetings
Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.
Further information
For further information please contact Jan Vollert, PhD, e-mail [email protected].
The closing date for completed applications is June 30th. Interviews are expected to take place on July 13th/14th.
Transform Your Career and Help Shape a Greener, Healthier, and Fairer Future
Join the University of Exeter, a top 200 Russel Group university (QS & THE World University Rankings 2025), excelling in teaching (triple Gold rating, TEF 2023) and leading groundbreaking research in the beautiful southwest of England.
We are committed to understanding different cultures and perspectives, supporting diverse leadership, and striving for social justice. We encourage applications from all groups underrepresented in our community, including racially minoritised individuals and those with disabilities. Our inclusive, merit based recruitment processes seek to embrace a diverse set of experiences to ensure colleagues feel supported equitably. With over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 140 countries, we foster a culture where everyone can thrive.
You can read more about our current accreditations and commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here, including our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant.
What we can offer you:
- Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines;
- Support teams that understand the University wide teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly;
- An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics providing specialist support for external engagement and development;
- Our Exeter Academic initiative supports high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career;
- A multitude of staff benefits including sector leading benefits around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay), and a Fertility Treatment Policy;
- A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon/Cornwall.
How we can help
If you are considering applying and need support to do so, please get in touch with us at
[email protected]. You can request reasonable adjustments within your application or by contacting us. You can also choose to be considered under our Disability Confident Scheme and find out here how this is managed during our recruitment and onboarding process.
