This role is an exciting opportunity to join a leading Neuroimmunology Imaging research team based at Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC).
The post-holder will work on a multi-disciplinary research programme using our advanced Siemens Connectom MRI scanner (a national microstructural imaging facility) aiming to develop new in-vivo methods for imaging brain immune cells (microglia) in humans. The role will include undertaking detailed clinical, immunological and neuropsychological assessments, MR Imaging, and clinical responsibility for participants undergoing endotoxin immune challenge within CUBRIC’s dedicated clinical testing facility; as well as working with a team of MR Physicists to conduct advanced neuroimaging analyses, presentations and writing publications. The post-holder will also work on a day-to-day basis supporting the CUBRIC clinical team and provide clinical cover including for any medical emergencies with up to one day a week being spent undertaking related clinical work at the University Hospital of Wales.
The post will be based in the Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC) part of the School of Psychology and will provide excellent training and experience in experimental medicine, including use of the endotoxin model of mild inflammation, and advanced diffusion MR Imaging.
Neuroinflammation, is implicated in the pathology of diverse medical, neurological, and psychiatric disorders including depression, neuro-SLE and Alzheimer’s disease; this post would therefore particularly suit someone aiming for an academic career in neurology, psychiatry, clinical immunology, rheumatology, or neuroradiology.
Candidates must be fully registered with the GMC at the time of appointment and should hold a RCUK certificate in advanced life support. Applicants must demonstrate an interest in pursuing a clinical academic career and will be expected to register and complete a PhD or other research qualification within the School of Psychology. A DBS check will also be required upon appointment.
The postholder will be given the opportunity to continue clinical work for up to one day per week. Arrangements for honorary appointment with relevant Health Board will be supported.
This post is full-time and fixed-term until 31 July 2025. Working hours 40 per week.
Salary: £35,350 - £61,207 per annum. It is not expected to appoint above £44,825 per annum, point 6 Clinical D1 scale.
Further information
To discuss the post further please contact Professor Neil Harrison,
[email protected] or Prof Mara Cercignani,
[email protected].
Job Description
Research
To undertake research as appropriate to the field of study. The responsibilities may include all or some of the following:
Plan and develop research contributions to the subject area using appropriate methodologies, critical evaluations, interpretations, analyses, and other appropriate techniques
Acting as investigator on the Neuroimmunology Imaging (Connectom) Project
Identify and screen eligible patients and enrol the participants against inclusion/exclusion criteria.
Take clinical responsibility for participants undergoing endotoxin challenge
Perform clinical, neuropsychological, and neuroimaging assessments including administration of contrast material if required.
Undertaking administrative tasks associated with the research project, including the planning and organisation of the project and the implementation of procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting
To engage with research partners, including patients and representative groups to develop and promote research activities
To register for undertaking a PhD in a suitable area as agreed (Optional)
To disseminate research findings using appropriate and effective national and international publications, research seminars, meetings and conferences
To communicate research to a wide-ranging audience (public, clinicians and academic) through public engagement activities
Develop research skills and scientific knowledge as part of this research fellowship with a view to becoming an independent researcher and decision maker.
Write/participate in the writing of research reports and publications including submission of any ethical amendments and/or NHS Health Board (Trust) approval in accordance with the research governance framework.
Facilitate the research endeavours of others in the research group, possibly including supervision of undergraduate project students and liaison with research collaborators
To review and synthesise existing research and clinical literature within the field
To participate in School research activities.
Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements in respect of equality and diversity, data protection, copyright and licensing, security, financial and other University policies, procedures, and codes as appropriate
Participate in School research activities.
Clinical
Provide clinical cover for other clinical/ pharmacological research studies within CUBRIC including studies requiring use of gadolinium contrast agent.
Maintain appropriate life support training skills.
Provide initial medical attention (and resuscitation if necessary) in the event of a medical emergency arising within CUBRIC.
Willingness to assisting CUBRIC radiographers and clinical staff with difficult venous cannulation.
Other
To engage effectively with industrial, commercial, and public sector organisations, charities, professional institutions, other academic institutions etc., regionally and nationally to raise awareness of the CUBRIC and School’s profile, to cultivate strategically valuable alliances, and to pursue opportunities for collaboration across arrange of activities. These activities are expected to contribute to the School and the enhancement of its regional and national profile.
• To undergo personal and professional development that is appropriate to and which will enhance performance.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
Qualifications and Education
Qualified Medical Practitioner with full GMC Registration and License to Practise
Evidence of achievement on UK Foundation competencies.
To hold, or be able to obtain on appointment: a) Certificate of Good Clinical Practice for Research (GCP) training and b) RCUK Advanced Life Support certification.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
3. Significant experience of neurology, psychiatry, clinical immunology, rheumatology, or neuroradiology.
4. Demonstrate evidence of the capability and drive to succeed in securing research funding
5. Self-motivated with enthusiasm for learning new skills
6. Able to work both independently and within a multi-disciplinary team.
7. Understanding of and interest in pursuing a clinical academic career
Other
8. Proven ability to demonstrate creativity, innovation and team-working within work
Desirable Criteria
Specialisation in Neurology, Psychiatry, Radiology or Immunology related medical specialties e.g. Rheumatology, infectious Diseases
Previous research experience in fields relevant to proposed project
Presentations of work at local and national meetings
Evidence of leadership potential
Proven ability to publish in national journals
