University of Birmingham
Job title:
Research Associate – NIBS and EEG in severe brain injury – School of Psychology – 103427 – Grade 6
Company
University of Birmingham
Job description
Job Description:
Position Details
School of Psychology
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £31,396 to £33,966 with potential progression once in post to £38,205
Grade: 6
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to March 2025
Closing date: 11th March 2024
UK travel is required for this role
Background
Applications are invited for a Full-time Research Associate Position for the bed-side arm of the RAINDROP study ( ). RAINDROP is a feasibility and proof of concept trial funded by HCA Healthcare and MRC, where we are using advanced brain imaging technologies to track the effects of non-invasive brain stimulation in a small group of patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness. Our aim is to better understand how stimulation techniques can be harnessed to improve communication and recovery, with the aim of developing an intervention that can offer improved rehabilitation rates for non-responsive patients.
The Research Associate will be responsible for the delivery of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and data collection of electroencephalography (EEG) measures. They may also support data collection of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The candidate will work with Dr Davinia Fernández-Espejo and Dr Damian Cruse at the School of Psychology and will be part of an integrative and multi-disciplinary team of researchers and clinicians.
To apply, please upload a cover letter, CV, and two reference letters.
We expect to interview shortlisted candidates online in late February / early March.
Role Summary
The role will involve delivery of tDCS and data collection of a range of EEG measures to assess the impact of tDCS on the brains of patients with a disorder of consciousness after severe brain injury. In addition, the Research Associate will be responsible for managing the project – i.e., interacting with families and clinicians, booking the testing sessions, etc. Testing is conducted in designated hospitals across the West Midlands and in London and therefore the successful candidate would need to be able to travel.
Main Duties
- Safely deliver tDCS to patients with severe brain injury.
- Travelling to a number of hospitals within the Midlands and in London where the patients are located.
- Collect research data, specifically EEG, EMG, MRI and behavioural data.
- Liaise with clinicians and family members before / during / after the testing sessions.
- Analyse and manage collected data as directed; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews.
- Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research.
- Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods.
- Participate in research team meetings.
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters.
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research.
- Participate and contribute to public engagement events.
Person Specification
Essential:
- A BSc Degree in the area of Psychology, Neuroscience, Health Sciences or equivalent.
- Experience with research and conducting of human (clinical) trials.
- Experience with collecting electrophysiological data.
- Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively.
- Ability to access and organise resources successfully.
- Strong organisation and time-management skills.
- Cooperative nature and strong teamwork skills, with a willingness to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
- Able to travel to the designated hospitals for testing.
Desirable:
- An MSc Degree in the area of Psychology, Neuroscience, Health Sciences, Biomedical Engineering or equivalent.
- Practical experience delivering tDCS or other non-invasive brain stimulation.
- Practical experience collecting MRI data.
- Practical experience interacting with clinical teams.
- Experience working with vulnerable populations.
OH/DBS required
The University is committed to safeguarding and we promote safe recruitment practice, therefore all associated pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. Due to the nature of the work undertaken in this role all successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory Occupational Health and DBS clearance prior to appointment.
Informal enquiries to Davinia Fernandez-Espejo, email:
We believe there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is one of our values. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone .
Expected salary
£31396 – 33966 per year
Location
United Kingdom
Job date
Tue, 05 Mar 2024 05:37:56 GMT
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