Research Fellow - School of Psychology

Over 40% of marriages in the UK end in divorce, with almost half of these involving couples who have children under the age of 16. Research has established the impact of divorce on children and young adults (e.g. Suisman, Alexandra Burt, McGue, Iacono & Klump, 2011) but the impact of divorce on the mental health of the parents is less well-established. Research tends to focus on mothers who are usually left with the majority of child custody. Fathers are under represented in research, and the impact of divorce and separation from their children is poorly understood.

This one year full time contract offers a unique and exciting opportunity to carry out valuable research into the mental health of fathers who have experienced a divorce or separation. This is a new research project, with stakeholders keen to gain greater insight into the experience of fathers as they separate from their co-parent and establish a new form of contact with their children. The research group, led by Dr Angharad Rudkin, will have strong links with legal bodies as well as charitable organisations related to male mental health and family break up.

The successful candidate will have a PhD* or equivalent professional qualifications in mental health.

This research project has been made possible due to a donation from the Woodward Charitable Organisation. Within this first year, the research group will be expected to produce a systematic review and two pieces of research, with the findings being widely disseminated through academic journals as well as through third sector organisations, via the stakeholder group networks. The applicant needs to be someone who can initiate a project quickly but thoughtfully. The research group will comprise Dr Pete Lawrence, Dr Angharad Rudkin and students from the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, the MSc in Clinical Skills as well as undergraduate students, so excellent interpersonal and supervision skills are essential. It is hoped that other funding opportunities will become available over time, allowing this research project to develop further in the future.

The successful applicant will also become a member of the School of Psychology's Centre for Innovation in Mental Health

Informal enquiries about the post are welcomed; please contact Dr Angharad Rudkin via email: arudkin@startmail.com or Dr Pete Lawrence on pj.lawrence@soton.ac.uk ..

*Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Interviews will be held on the 18th and 22nd January 2021.

We aim to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community.