Research Associate (Public Health Nutrition in Schools)University

The Hull York Medical School at the University of York is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced research associate to deliver on nutrition research that has the potential to make a difference to children, families and schools.

School meals offer a critical opportunity to improve diet quality and health, particularly in deprived areas where children face poorer diets and higher rates of obesity and dental decay. With UK government standards updating in 2027, there is a key opportunity to elevate food quality. However, for real impact, meals must be nutritious, appealing, and widely eaten. Evolving political, social, and environmental landscapes mean further research is essential. This post will work on a programme of research related to school food in partnership with key policy decision makers and relevant national organisations.

The post will join the Public Health Nutrition team (led by Prof Maria Bryant), a research team that focuses on advancing health and well-being through impactful investigations into key areas of public health nutrition and social determinants of health in children and families. They will be integrated within both the Hull York Medical School and the Department of Health Sciences (sitting within the Population and Society research group led by Professor Kate Pickett).

The post will be appointed by the Hull York Medical School and will be based on the York Campus, within the Department of Health Sciences, whilst also maintaining strong links with the relevant departments across the Campus.

Role

In addition to conducting nutrition research under the supervision of senior colleagues the post will be involved in the development of potential areas of research and/or research grant proposals.  Research roles will include  analysis and interpretation of research data; partnership working (including local and national policy makers); data collection (including within schools); writing up of research results and dissemination through publications, seminar and conference presentations; and public engagement and outreach activities.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

Undergraduate degree in nutrition (preferably with dietetics) and a PhD in nutrition or public health nutrition

Knowledge in public health nutrition and/or school food, and a range of research techniques and methodologies, including dietary assessment

Highly developed communication skills to engage effectively with a wide ranging audience, both orally and in writing, using a range of media

Ability to write up research work for publication in high profile journals and engage in public dissemination

Competency to conduct individual and collaborative research projects

Interview date: 4th November (to be confirmed)

For informal enquiries: please contact Professor Maria Bryant at [email protected]

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork.

As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview. Read more about the University of York’s commitments under the Disability Confident scheme.

£37,694 to £46,049 per year