NIHR Policy (Public Health) Specialist Role 2026 – Join UK Health Research Committee & Influence National Funding Decisions

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) is inviting experienced public health professionals to apply for an influential and prestigious opportunity as a Policy (Public Health) Specialist. This role sits within the Public Health Research (PHR) Programme and contributes directly to shaping the future of population health research in the United Kingdom.

With a closing date of 26 May 2026, this opportunity is ideal for senior public health leaders who are passionate about advancing research, influencing policy, and mentoring the next generation of health researchers.

About the Role

The NIHR Public Health Research Programme is currently recruiting experts to join the Population Health Career Scientist Award (PHCSA) selection committee. This committee plays a critical role in identifying and supporting emerging leaders in population health research.

The PHCSA scheme is designed to nurture senior researchers who are on the path toward becoming professors or readers. It focuses on empowering them to deliver innovative research that addresses the broader determinants of health, such as social, environmental, and economic factors.

As a committee member, you will provide expert advice to the chair on which applicants should receive funding. Your input will directly influence which research projects move forward, ultimately shaping public health outcomes across the UK.

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About the Committee

The PHCSA selection committee is central to the success of the programme. Its role is to evaluate applications holistically, ensuring that funding is awarded to individuals and projects with the greatest potential impact.

The committee assesses each application based on four key components:

• Person: Whether the applicant’s career stage aligns with PHCSA criteria
• Training and Development: The strength and relevance of the applicant’s development plan
• Project: The quality, innovation, and public health relevance of the proposed research
• Place: The suitability and commitment of the host organisation

This comprehensive approach ensures that selected candidates are well-positioned to become leaders in population health research.

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Key Responsibilities

Serving on the PHCSA selection committee comes with a range of important responsibilities. Members are expected to actively contribute to the evaluation and selection process through the following:

• Reviewing detailed applications and providing constructive feedback for shortlisting
• Participating in two days of interview meetings annually
• Managing pre- and post-meeting workload, estimated at approximately one additional day per cycle
• Engaging in discussions and decision-making processes with fellow committee members
• Supporting fair, transparent, and evidence-based funding recommendations

This role requires a strong commitment to excellence, fairness, and collaboration.

Tenure and Time Commitment

The appointment is for a three-year term, ensuring both continuity and the opportunity to refresh committee membership regularly.

Currently, all meetings are conducted virtually, making participation more flexible and accessible. However, members may occasionally be invited to attend smaller virtual meetings related to the PHCSA programme.

Overall, the time commitment is manageable for senior professionals, while still offering a meaningful opportunity to contribute to national research priorities.

Who Should Apply?

NIHR is seeking highly experienced professionals with a strong background in public health policy and research. This role is particularly suited to individuals currently working in senior positions such as:

• Director of Public Health
• Health Determinant Research Centre (HDRC) Director
• Senior academic or policy leader in public health

Essential Criteria

To be considered, applicants must demonstrate:

• A relevant background in public health
• Strong understanding of the importance of public health research
• Current or recent senior-level experience within the UK public health sector
• Proven leadership and research track record
• Appropriate professional qualifications and registrations
• Expertise relevant to the programme’s remit

In addition, candidates must possess the ability to:

• Analyse and summarise complex information from lengthy documents
• Participate confidently in discussions and group decision-making
• Communicate clearly and provide constructive feedback
• Use digital systems and demonstrate computer literacy

Desirable Experience

While not mandatory, the following will strengthen your application:

• Experience with peer review processes
• Previous involvement in NIHR programmes
• Knowledge of public health research methodologies and development

Why This Role Matters

This is more than just a committee position—it is an opportunity to influence the direction of public health research at a national level.

By joining the PHCSA selection committee, you will:

• Help identify and support future leaders in population health
• Contribute to research that addresses critical health inequalities
• Influence funding decisions that shape public health outcomes
• Collaborate with other senior experts across disciplines
• Strengthen your professional profile and leadership experience

Your expertise will play a vital role in ensuring that high-quality, impactful research receives the support it deserves.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

NIHR is deeply committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The organisation actively encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, communities, and experiences.

Efforts are made to ensure that all applicants are supported throughout the process. Reasonable adjustments are available to remove barriers and promote equal participation.

In addition, NIHR collects anonymous equality monitoring data to ensure fairness and transparency in recruitment. All data is handled in accordance with strict privacy policies.

Application Process

Applying for this role is straightforward and conducted online. Candidates are encouraged to review the guidance on becoming a committee member before starting their application.

The application process involves:

• Completing an online application form
• Providing details about your experience and expertise
• Uploading supporting documents if required

If you have any questions or require assistance, you can contact the NIHR team directly via email.

Once submitted, applicants will receive a follow-up email requesting completion of an anonymous equality monitoring form.

Final Thoughts

The NIHR Policy (Public Health) Specialist role offers a unique platform for experienced professionals to shape the future of public health research. It combines strategic influence, professional growth, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change.

With flexible virtual participation, a manageable time commitment, and a clear impact on research funding decisions, this position is ideal for senior leaders looking to extend their influence beyond their current roles.

If you are passionate about advancing public health, supporting emerging researchers, and contributing to evidence-based policy, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Application Deadline: 26 May 2026

Take the next step in your career and help drive innovation in population health research by becoming part of the NIHR PHCSA selection committee.