Applications invited for academic research partner

The Forum is seeking applications for a new five-year strategic research partnership that will enable it to develop research into the health and wellbeing of men and boys.

The partnership forms part of Forum's work towards it key objectives for 2012-17 which include advancing best practices and policies on the health and wellbeing of men and boys; providing men’s health promotion and education; and accelerating research.

The MHF has a strong, long-term commitment to research. It has undertaken and commissioned several major research projects with a significant impact on the evidence-base as well as policy and practice. Over the next five years, it wants to play an increasing role in the development of research in its field.

Shared values and goals

The MHF’s research programme will focus on reducing the burden of preventable conditions affecting men and boys (not just male-specific conditions). We are particularly interested in developing a better understanding of:

• The scale and significance of the problems facing men and boys
• The problems facing men and boys within particular groups (eg. BME communities, disabled men and boys, low income groups)
• How men and boys use health and related services and how this can be improved
• How the health-related behaviours of men and boys (eg. smoking, alcohol, diet) can be improved
• How the health and wellbeing of men and boys can be effectively addressed in national and local health policy and practice
• The role of local communities, volunteers and champions in improving the health and wellbeing of men and boys.

The MHF is not at this stage seeking a partner for biomedical research. It is envisaged that the academic research partner, which will share the Forum's values and goals and have a clear understanding of its work and objectives, will be based in a university or an institution of similar standing and reputation in England or Wales

Expressions of interest are requested by 5pm on Wednesday 22 February 2012. Potential applicants with any questions should contact MHF CEO Peter Baker on 01273 276547 or by email through the address on the full call for applications, downloadable below.

• Download Strategic research partnership 2012-17: call for applications