Research Fellow in Breast Cancer Inequalities

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A postdoctoral research fellow position in the cancer care group (School of Health Sciences) is available at the University of Surrey. The position will support a NIHR Research for Patient Benefit (RfPB) Programme funded study aimed at testing the acceptability and feasibility of delivering a breast cancer awareness intervention to women of Black African and Black Caribbean heritage in ante‑natal settings.

The University of Surrey is seeking an experienced research fellow to join the project team. The post‑holder will be based at Surrey (under the supervision of Dr Afrodita Marcu) and will join a wider team of academics at the University of Surrey working on this project (Professor Emma Ream, Professor Jo Armes, Dr Pippa Lally, and Professor Heather Gage). To deliver the project, the post‑holder will also work closely with PPI representatives and collaborators at King’s College London, Epsom & St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, and Medway NHS Foundation Trust.

They will undertake quantitative research exploring the feasibility of the intervention, and qualitative research exploring what makes the intervention acceptable to pregnant women and midwives. They will work with the broader team to assess the feasibility outcomes of the trial, and to determine the primary outcomes on which to power a future full‑scale trial. The appointed research fellow will work closely with the PPI panel, and will travel to the two study sites (Epsom & St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, and Medway NHS Foundation Trust) to set up the study and recruit participants.

A DBS check will be required for the research element of the role. The expected start date is 1 November 2026.

• Experience in quantitative research, midwifery research, women’s health research, behaviour change interventions and/or feasibility trials.
• Interest in research on cancer or health inequalities.
• Proven track record of research contributions in a relevant discipline.
• Committed to diversity and inclusion.

In return we offer a generous pension, relocation assistance where appropriate, flexible working options including blended home/campus working locations (dependent on work duties), access to world‑class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes and supportive family‑friendly benefits including an excellent on‑site nursery.

Studies have shown that women and other minoritised groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single criteria. In the School of Health Sciences, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you are excited about this role but your experience does not align perfectly with what is stated, we encourage you to contact us to discuss.

Women from Black British, African, Caribbean or mixed Black backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.