IMS Epidemiology (www.epi.ims.cam.ac.uk) is seeking to appoint an Assistant Research Professor in Public Health Evaluation.
This position is based in the Population Health Interventions group (www.epi.ims.cam.ac.uk/research/research-areas/population-health-interventions/), an interdisciplinary team combining epidemiological, public health and social science approaches to understand how changes in fiscal, physical and social environments can improve diet, physical activity and health. The postholder will work on a programme funded by an NIHR fellowship (www.fundingawards.nihr.ac.uk/award/NIHR305560) held by Jenna Panter (www.epi.ims.cam.ac.uk/people/jenna-panter/), which aims to provide generalisable explanations for the success (or not) of interventions in the transport system, taking context into account. This is an opportunity to make a substantial intellectual contribution within a highly collaborative research environment and to help shape an ambitious programme of research.
IMS Epidemiology is a division within the University of Cambridge's School of Clinical Medicine, based in the Institute of Metabolic Science on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Its mission is to study the genetic, developmental and environmental factors that contribute to obesity, diabetes and related metabolic disorders, and to develop strategies for their prevention. The division benefits from large-scale, cross-programme epidemiological studies with detailed datasets that support a wide range of research, from genetics to public health. Highly experienced information and specialist teams support scientists in delivering their research aims.
The successful candidate will have completed a PhD in public health or a related discipline, together with strong research skills relevant to the evaluation and understanding of population health interventions. They will understand the challenges and opportunities of evaluating public health interventions and have proven experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Quantitative analysis, including collating and analysing secondary data using methods suitable for repeated cross-sectional or longitudinal data
- Spatial analysis, including managing, mapping and analysing locational data
- Complex systems methods, including, but not limited to, systems mapping, group model building and causal loop diagrams
Regardless of their skill set, applicants must have proven experience developing and maintaining strong working relationships with stakeholders and liaising to access data. We are looking for someone who can work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team, communicate complex ideas clearly to academic and non-academic audiences, and manage their work effectively to deliver high-quality research to agreed deadlines.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 18 months in the first instance.
We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.
The University has a hybrid working policy, and the number of days in the office can be negotiated. However, the expectation is that the postholder will work in the office at least two days each week.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Closing Date: Sunday 6th December 2026
Interview Date: Tuesday 15th December 2026
For informal enquiries please contact Jenna Panter (jenna.panter@ims.cam.ac.uk)
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
Please quote reference SJ51631 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
