Research Fellow

Full-Time, Fixed-Term (14 months)

ATTENS project (External nerve trigeminal stimulation in ADHD)

The Research Fellow will work with Prof Cortese on an NHIR funded project (PI: Prof Rubia, King’s College London, KCL) on an exciting project funded by the NIHR testing a novel non-pharmacological brain stimulation therapy for ADHD approved by the FDA & CE. The therapy is based on the stimulation of the trigeminal nerve (TNS) which has shown to improve ADHD symptoms in a proof-of-concept trial in the USA. This study will test the novel neurotherapy for ADHD in a larger, multicentre, randomised controlled trial (RCT) in 150 children and adolescents with ADHD at KCL and Southampton University.

The Research Fellow will assist the post-doctoral Research Fellow with the last months of recruitment and assessment for the project as well as writing up of the papers. The candidate will have a PhD* or have submitted their thesis in psychology, neuropsychology, biology, medicine, or related fields and show evidence of working independently, excellent organisation skills, team-work abilities and writing skills. It would be an advantage if the Research Fellow has knowledge of ADHD or other mental health disorders, and experience of recruitment, of working with children and adolescents, and of conducting research assessments including clinical questionnaires, neurocognitive testing, and IQ assessments.

Our School has expertise in child and adolescent psychiatry, developmental and applied psychopathology, and psychological interventions across the lifespan. Colleagues are recognised for producing world-leading, high-impact research, supported by excellent research facilities (REF2021). These include purpose-built laboratories for social interaction and behavioural observation, therapeutic intervention, child/family studies, neuropsychological/cognitive testing, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), electroencephalography (EEG), neurostimulation (TMS/tDCS), psychophysiology, eye-tracking, virtual reality, and psychopharmacology. 

We have collaborations with University research groups in Medicine (Psychiatry, Primary Care), Biological Sciences (Neuroscience), Health Sciences, Computer Sciences and Social Sciences. The Institute for Life Sciences supports further cross-disciplinary collaboration. Our partnerships with NHS Trusts, schools, Government, charities and industry deliver world leading impact (REF2021) and attract significant grant income from all major research funders. 

Psychology is a successful School and a friendly and positive place to work. You will join a collegiate team who share expertise, provide mentorship, and support professional development. We value diversity and equality and recognise that employees may wish to have working patterns that fit with their caring responsibilities or work-life balance, including part-time working. Due consideration will be given to applicants who have had career breaks for reasons including maternity, paternity or adoption leave, disability or illness. 

As a founding signatory of the Athena SWAN charter, and holder of a silver award, we are committed to improving equality. We aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity.

For additional information or informal enquiries before submitting your application, please contact Professor Samuele Cortese email: samuele.cortese@soton.ac.uk or Clinical Trial Manager Lena Johansson email: l.johansson@soton.ac.uk

*Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number.

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