Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) - Health Psychology with a focus on cancer survivorship
All postgraduate researchers (PGRs) are registered in the University’s Graduate School and housed in the faculty or department that is most appropriate for the project on which they are working. The GTA appointed to this project will housed with the Department of Psychology.
This Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) post will specifically contribute to our research in health psychology, with a focus on cancer survivorship. Applications are invited from candidates who wish to undertake original and impactful research focussed on one of the following topic areas:
Cancer-related cognitive dysfunction. A substantial body of literature now demonstrates that cancer and cancer treatments are associated with cognitive impairments. These include, for example, difficulties related to memory, attention, and the ability to think clearly or multi-task. We invite proposals which will build on existing literature with a focus on either:
- laboratory-based research utilising brain-stimulation techniques (e.g. TMS, tDCS) or brain activity measurement (e.g. EEG, fNIRS) leading to better understand the physiological nature, causes and/or potential sub-types of cancer-related cognitive dysfunction; or
- developing and testing theoretically-informed psychological interventions to manage and mitigate the impacts of cancer-related cognitive dysfunction on psychosocial wellbeing and quality of life.
Post-traumatic growth and benefit finding in cancer survivorship. The vast majority of current literature exploring the psychosocial impact of cancer focuses on prevalence of psychological disorders, such as anxiety and depression. However, there is a growing evidence-base suggesting that some cancer survivors report improvements in their psychosocial wellbeing and quality of life, compared to their life before diagnosis. We will consider proposals for either:
- research which leads to a better understanding of the correlates and/or predictors of post-traumatic growth and benefit finding in cancer survivors; or
- research which contributes to the development and testing of theoretically-informed psychological interventions to promote and maximise post-traumatic growth and benefit finding in those living with or beyond cancer.
We will accept proposals for either quantitative or mixed-methods programmes of work. However, for this particular opportunity, solely qualitative project proposals will not be considered. We are especially interested in receiving proposals for work targeted at adolescent and young adults living with and beyond cancer.
This is an excellent opportunity for applicants to undertake an original programme of applied psychology research. We have excellent links with a range of local and national cancer treatment centres and charities, and existing links with local patient groups and dedicated research advisors with lived experience of cancer. This helps us to make sure that our research matters to people living with and beyond cancer, and has a high likelihood of impacting health and social care and support provided to this population. We expect the successful candidate to be passionate about interdisciplinary applied research. Alongside your research you will support teaching across a range of undergraduate psychology degrees, all of which are accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
For enquiries about this project, please contact Professor Nick Hulbert-Williams ([Email Address Removed]) in advance of submitting your application.
About You
You will have a 2.1 or above undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, whilst a Masters degree would also be an advantage. You should have a passion for pursuing original research in your subject area along with the desire to develop your teaching ability by supporting an experienced and dynamic undergraduate programme team.
Highly motivated, resilient and with the determination to succeed, you will be committed to undertaking a PhD and will possess strong written and oral communication skills along with excellent organisational skills.
A BPS accredited (or equivalent) UG in Psychology is essential.
About Edge Hill University
“A great success story… an institution that improves and impresses year after year” – Times Higher Education.
We are recognised for our outstanding achievements in student satisfaction, staff engagement, graduate employment and innovation as well as our strengthening research profile, investment and growth. The Times Higher ‘University of the Year’ award also celebrated our distinct role in “transforming lives” – reflecting a distinctive philosophy of creating opportunity from excellence.
Edge Hill University was named Modern University of the Year in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 and shortlisted for the overall UK University of the Year award. Edge Hill has also recently been awarded University of the Year in the Educate North Awards (2021) in recognition of our continued commitment to deliver an exceptional student experience and the exceptional progress we have made to deliver investment and innovation over the past 12 months, while placing students at the heart of everything we do.
The University has been ranked Best University Workplace (Times Higher Education 2015), judged Best UK Employer (European Business Awards 2016) and highly commended in Times Higher Education Leadership and Management Awards 2017 for Workplace of the Year.
Based on an award-winning campus in West Lancashire, Edge Hill University offers a stimulating and empowering environment for ambitious and high performing professionals
How to apply
Applicants must complete the online application form via www.edgehill.ac.uk/jobs and attach 5 separate documents in the following order:
- A ‘Research Proposal’ which should not exceed 2,000 words
- A full academic curriculum vitae
- Qualification certificates and a scanned copy of your passport
- A completed budget sheet (see application guidance for further support)
- IELTs, or equivalent, paperwork – click here for further information (international and EU applications only). It is very important applicants seek clarification regarding this paperwork before applying if you have any questions.
Applications without the above paperwork will not be considered for shortlisting.
Interview arrangements
Interviews are expected to be held in December 2022. The exact date will be confirmed in due course. Panel availability is limited. Shortlisted candidates will be offered one interview slot only.
Project Information is available alongside the job description below.
Application Guidance
At Edge Hill University we value the benefits a rich and diverse workforce brings to our community and therefore welcome applications from all sections of society.
Further details: Job Description & Person Specification
Continue with Facebook
