Postdoctoral Researcher: Flourishing Nature Connections

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment with an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

The Department of Psychiatry is based on the Warneford Hospital site in Oxford – a friendly, welcoming place of work with an international reputation for excellence. The Department has a substantial research programme, with major funding from Medical Research Council (MRC), Wellcome Trust and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR). The Head of Department is Professor Belinda Lennox.

This is an exciting opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher joining an exciting new programme within the NEUROSEC team – Flourishing Nature Connections – led by Dr Lalitha Iyadurai. The postholder will be managing the day-to-day running of studies investigating the effects of nature exposure and nature-based programmes on human wellbeing and mental health.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

•          An excellent contributory pension scheme

•          38 days annual leave

•          A comprehensive range of childcare services

•          Family leave schemes

•          Cycle loan scheme

•          Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

•          Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

About the Role

The post is fixed-term until 31st December 2027 and is based in the Department of Psychiatry at the Warneford Hospital.

The post is available on a flexible hybrid basis.  The postholder must be in the office on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to attend regular Departmental and Team meetings.

You will be managing the day-to-day running of studies investigating the effects of nature exposure and nature-based programmes on human wellbeing and mental health. You will liaise with collaborating organisations (Eden Project and other third parties), manage project tasks and timelines, and manage all aspects of the research process under line management from a Senior Researcher, including ethics and research governance, participant recruitment, data collection, data analysis, leading on publications and dissemination.  You will be a core member of an interdisciplinary research team and will provide guidance to junior members of the research group including research assistants, students, and volunteers.

About You

You will have or be close to the completion of a PhD in Psychology, Psychiatry, Mental Health Science or related discipline, together with relevant experience. Demonstrable research experience, including the ability to independently manage a research project within timelines, is essential. You will also possess excellent data analysis skills, strong interpersonal and communication skills, and evidence of strong scientific writing. Experience of using online survey/app-based software for data collection e.g. Qualtrics, mPath would be desirable.

Diversity

Committed to equality and valuing diversity

Application Process

You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application. Please see the University pages on the application process at  

The closing date for applications is 9 February 2026.

Interviews will take place on the week commencing 23 February 2026 and will be face-to-face or online where required.