Postdoctoral Researcher: Adverse Childhood

Postdoctoral Researcher:
Adverse Childhood Experiences

Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford OX3 7JX

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

The Department of Psychiatry is based on the Warneford Hospital site in Oxford – a friendly, welcoming place of work with an international reputation for excellence. The Department has a substantial research programme, with major funding from Medical Research Council (MRC), Wellcome Trust and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and provides highly rated medical training in psychiatry. The Head of Department is Professor Belinda Lennox.

This is an exciting opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher to join the CHiMEs research group with the responsibility for carrying out research for a new study looking at evaluating recruitment strategies for young people who have adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to a digital serious game (Ace of Hearts).

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

The post is available on a flexible hybrid basis, with on-site working required on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The post is funded until 31 March 2028 and is based in the Department of Psychiatry at Warneford Hospital.

You will manage your own academic research and administrative activities. This involves small‑scale project management to coordinate multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines. You will prepare working theories and analyse qualitative and/or quantitative data from a variety of sources, reviewing and refining theories as appropriate. You will represent the research group at external meetings and seminars, either with other members of the group or alone.

You will be close to completion of a relevant PhD/DPhil, together with relevant experience. You will possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes. You will have experience of working with or ability to engage effectively with adolescents from diverse backgrounds, including those who have experienced adversity or challenging life circumstances.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity.

You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application. The closing date for applications is 13 July 2026.