[10/3/2025 A] Postdoctoral Researcher

Job Title: Postdoctoral Researcher - National Cancer Research Plan Department: General Practice, RCSI Reporting to: Professor Patrick Redmond Location: RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin Contract/Duration: Specified purpose contract, up to 9 months Remuneration: Up to €48,896 per annum Closing Date: 8th of October 2025 About PRiCAN PRiCAN (Primary Care Research into Cancer) is a multidisciplinary research team aimed at enhancing early cancer detection, diagnosis, and outcomes in primary care settings. Beyond the immediate project, you will be part of a broader program of research in primary care and cancer, with opportunities to contribute to multidisciplinary initiatives. PRiCAN integrates a wide of research activities, including: Developing and testing digital health interventions to improve patient engagement and access to care. Exploring the integration of non-invasive biomarkers with the aim of conducting clinical trials to evaluate innovative screening strategies. Leveraging data science to assess the utility of general practice data for research and clinical care. Engaging with our public and patient involvement (PPI) group to ensure research is grounded in patient needs and experiences. About the Project This project is funded by the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) to support the development of Ireland's first National Cancer Research Plan. The project is led by Professor Patrick Redmond and consists of two core work packages: (1) structured evidence synthesis and comparative benchmarking of national and international cancer research strategies; and (2) a multi-phase stakeholder engagement process with patients, clinicians, researchers, funders, policymakers and advocacy groups. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering this programme of work, contributing to evidence synthesis, stakeholder engagement and the co-development of actionable recommendations to guide the NCRP. Opportunities for Career Development We are committed to supporting the long-term career progression of our team. Candidates will be encouraged and guided to apply for fellowships or other funding opportunities to extend their research, with the potential to secure up to four additional years of funding. This role offers a unique opportunity to: Build your academic publication record through collaborative research targeting high-impact journals. Present findings at international conferences, gaining visibility and recognition in the field. Contribute to PRiCAN's diverse research portfolio while developing skills in stakeholder engagement and health policy translation. Summary of Post The post-holder will contribute to a programme of work combining evidence synthesis, comparative policy benchmarking and multi-phase stakeholder engagement. Working closely with academic, clinical and policy partners, the postdoctoral researcher will play a central role in analysing international cancer research strategies, coordinating national consultation activities and co-developing actionable recommendations for the NCRP. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence national cancer research policy, strengthen Ireland's research infrastructure and contribute to shaping a collaborative, evidence-informed research agenda with lasting impact. Specifically, the duties of the post are: Evidence Synthesis: Conduct a structured scoping review and comparative benchmarking of national and international cancer research strategies, governance models and funding mechanisms. Qualitative Research: Lead and support qualitative and quantitative data collection, including surveys, key informant interviews and stakeholder workshops. Stakeholder & Partner Engagement: Coordinate with academic, clinical, policy, and advocacy partners, ensuring effective communication and collaboration across the consortium. Analyse stakeholder input using appropriate frameworks (e.g. thematic analysis, policy benchmarking) to inform consensus-based recommendations. Ethics & Project Management: Prepare and manage ethics submissions, data protection documentation and progress reporting to the NCCP. Dissemination & Reporting: Prepare reports, policy briefs and academic publications; contribute to consortium deliverables and represent the team at relevant meetings and conferences. Qualifications - (Essential): A PhD in a relevant field (e.g., Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Policy). Proven ability to analyse and interpret complex data using appropriate frameworks. Strong qualitative/mixed methods research skills with extensive experience of stakeholder engagement. Excellent organisational and project management skills. Qualifications - (Desirable): Experience working at the interface of research and policy. Familiarity with cancer research strategies or benchmarking initiatives. Experience in producing policy briefs or technical reports in addition to academic publications We are all too aware that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can sometimes stop fantastic candidates putting themselves forward, so please do submit an application - we'd love to hear from you. Application Process Please apply online through the RCSI careers portal on the closing date with your CV and cover letter. Informal Enquiries can be directed to . Please note we do not accept CVs directly. Click here to read our Recruitment and Selection Policy for Researcher.