Postdoctoral Qualitative Researcher

Applications are invited for a post-doctoral qualitative researcher, working with Dr Claire Friedemann Smith on three projects which aim to improve primary care cancer detection. One project focuses on patient perspectives and aims to understand the information older people need about the harms and benefits of prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing (ProsDetect II). The second project addresses challenges in cancer safety-netting, exploring how text-messages can be used to engage with patients who might need help with ongoing symptoms (INFONET). The third project looks at systems more broadly, aiming to understand how the organisation of cancer testing creates or increases inequalities in test access (QUEST). Each project is at a different stage in its development and so there is an opportunity to contribute to answering more established research questions, as well as helping to shape the development of others.

The successful applicant will work alongside experienced clinical and mixed-methods researchers, and implementation scientists using qualitative methods to develop interview schedules, collect and analyse qualitative data, and contribute to paper writing. We can offer a stimulating professional environment working on high-profile projects with direct impact on policy and practice as part of a dynamic, diverse team in a supportive and inclusive working environment. The post-holder will also have the opportunity to supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students and contribute to the department’s teaching should they wish to.

You will hold a DPhil or PhD (or be near completion) in an area relevant to the project, have experience in cancer research, gaining ethical approval for research, and in conducting qualitative research, and be able to manage your own research activities.

You will be based in the Radcliffe Primary Care Building, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG as your normal place of work but you will be able to agree a pattern of regular remote working with your line manager.

The position is funded by an NIHR School of Academic Primary Care Research grant (the ProsDetect II study), an NIHR Research for Patient Benefit grant (INFONET study), and the NIHR PRU on Cancer Awareness, Screening, and Early Diagnosis, for two years or until 30 June 2028, whichever is earliest.

For further information or discuss the post, please contact Dr Claire Friedemann Smith, claire.friedemann@phc.ox.ac.uk.

“Committed to equality and valuing diversity”

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online and you will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. The Supporting Statement should include a cover letter and should also clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description. Click here for information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement. Please do not attach any manuscripts, papers, transcripts, mark sheets or certificates as these will not be considered as part of your application.

The closing date for applications is 12:00 noon on Wednesday 25 March 2026.

Interviews are expected to be held during the week commencing 20 April 2026.