Research Associate

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £32,546 to £35,116 with potential progression once in post to £39,355

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to July 2026 

Background

The role of the post holder is to support ongoing clinical and laboratory research projects within the Translational Brain Sciences group portfolio, which will involve the collection/handling/processing of samples from human participants (self-collected). This role will involve sample collection, handling and processing (according to project protocols and Standard Operating Procedures) and completion of the necessary records and electronic tracking logs for samples. The post holder will also develop, conduct and analyse laboratory assays associated with clinical research projects within the group. The post holder will work towards understanding pathology and to identify biomarkers and develop a new treatment for raised brain pressure. The candidate will be part of an integrative and multi-disciplinary team of researchers and clinicians working collaboratively to deliver the project.

Main Duties

• To co-ordinate and conduct primary research towards the goals of the research project, specifically, organise, collect, process and analyse the in vitro and in vivo models of raised intracranial pressure and associated symptoms.
• Management of the samples and laboratory space. 
• To apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding and interpretation from the biological data.
• To contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods in analysis and management of biological and animal data.
• If needed support with analyse and manage collected samples and data as directed; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and working closely with the Human Biomaterials Resource Centre and The Birmingham NIHR/Welcome Trust Clinical Research Facility (CRF).
• Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as database management, scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews.
• Analyse research data as directed.
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters.
• Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods.
• Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research.
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines.
• Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research, for example organising participant visits, inputting data onto case report forms, data quality checking.
• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.

Person Specification

• A BSc or MSc Degree in the area of Physiology and Health Sciences, Biomedical Sciences or Neuroscience. 
• Understanding of research and conducting of human (clinical) trials. 
• Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques.
• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively.
• Ability to access and organise resources successfully.
• Knowledge of human tissue act and good clinical practice.
• Preferably practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques. That is, experience with in-vivo models, ELISA, RT-PCR and handling biological samples.

Informal enquiries can be made to Alex Sinclair, email: a.b.sinclair@bham.ac.uk 

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

Advert information