King’s College London Seeks Qualitative Researcher for EDEN Trial on Anorexia and Depression

New Opportunity at King’s to Support MRC-Funded Study on Ketamine for Eating Disorders

King’s College London has announced a part-time opportunity for a Qualitative Research Associate or Assistant to support the EDEN study, a Medical Research Council-funded feasibility trial focused on treatment interventions for individuals with anorexia nervosa and treatment-resistant depression. The post is based within the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience and offers a 12-month fixed-term contract, with the possibility of renewal for a further year.

The EDEN study aims to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and acceptability of a randomised controlled trial comparing ketamine and placebo. If successful, the trial may lead to a larger clinical study. The appointed researcher will conduct in-depth interviews with patients and carers, exploring treatment experiences, expectations, and reasons for withdrawal. The successful candidate will join the Qualitative Applied Health Research Centre (QUAHRC) and be affiliated with the Centre for Research in Eating and Weight Disorders (CREW), led by Professor Ulrike Schmidt. The role involves close collaboration with Professor Vanessa Lawrence, Director of QUAHRC, and Dr Hubertus Himmerich, Principal Investigator of the EDEN trial.

Applicants must hold a PhD in a relevant discipline, though those with a Master’s degree may be considered for the Grade 5 Assistant level. Essential criteria include experience in participant recruitment, qualitative interviewing, data analysis, and academic writing. A strong commitment to exploring the lived experiences of individuals with mental health conditions is also required. Desirable qualifications include prior work with individuals affected by eating disorders, familiarity with the Framework Approach, and proficiency in NVivo or similar qualitative software. Understanding of ethical and governance protocols in mental health research is also advantageous.

The role is graded at Grade 5 (£38,482–£43,249) or Grade 6 (£44,355–£49,128) per annum pro rata, inclusive of the London Weighting Allowance. Applications must be submitted by 7 August 2025, and interested candidates may contact Professor Vanessa Lawrence at vanessa.c.lawrence@kcl.ac.uk for further details. This position offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge mental health research within a leading academic institution.

Editor’s Note:

The part-time Qualitative Research Associate or Assistant role at King’s College London represents a meaningful opportunity to contribute to one of the UK’s most innovative mental health studies. The EDEN trial, funded by the Medical Research Council, explores the use of ketamine as a treatment for individuals with anorexia nervosa and treatment-resistant depression, a population often underserved by conventional therapies. This post is important for its academic value and for its potential to improve lives. By gathering and analysing patient and carer experiences, the appointed researcher will help shape future clinical trials and inform treatment approaches that are both effective and compassionate. The role also reflects King’s commitment to inclusive, patient-centred research and its leadership in advancing mental health care through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Skoobuzz believes that for researchers passionate about qualitative methods and mental health, this position offers a rare chance to make a lasting impact in a field where new solutions are urgently needed.