EdTech Job – Research Assistant in the Department of Psychological Medicine at King’s College London

Job Description

We are seeking a seasoned researcher for a compelling opportunity at the Centre for Affective Disorders (CfAD), renowned for its pivotal role in advancing the understanding of affective disorders and leveraging this expertise to pioneer new treatment modalities, encompassing psychological and pharmacological approaches.

Position Overview:

The chosen candidate will be engaged in collaborating with two eminent academics at CfAD. Primarily, this will involve assisting Professor Anthony Cleare, co-director of the Centre, by managing and analyzing research data, and contributing to the publication of research findings. A key focus will be on the LQD Study, effectively managing its existing data, and spearheading secondary analyses, write-ups, and broader communication of results. Furthermore, the role includes participation in assorted research collaborations, ranging from data gathering to conducting systematic reviews.

In tandem, interaction with Dr. Rebecca Strawbridge, a renowned Lecturer in Psychological Medicine, is envisaged—chiefly to helm a cutting-edge proof-of-concept study concerning an additional lithium formulation for depression sufferers showing mixed symptoms. Responsibilities here span the spectrum from study initiation and administration to patient recruitment and data gathering, with the prospect of leading future analysis and information dissemination efforts.

Prerequisites for the aspirant include a proven track record in research study management adhering to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) norms, experience in ethical application processes, a successful history in peer-reviewed scholarly publishing, and adeptness in data analysis.

The position promises an extensive exposure to the realm of affective disorder research encompassing various stages from participant engagement to study administration, data examination, manuscript composition, and eventual publication—positioning it as the perfect stepping stone for individuals aiming to excel in mental health research.

The role is available as a full-time commitment under a fixed-term contract, concluding on April 30th, 2026.

Key Responsibilities:

– Designing and performing data analysis.
– Drafting manuscripts for scholarly dissemination.
– Overseeing the administrative aspects of the research study, including obtaining necessary approvals, data handling, and conforming to data protection standards and applicable SOPs.
– Identifying, screening, recruiting, and assessing study participants.
– Administering research evaluations.
– As needed, offering support across various activities or studies and occasionally executing additional tasks compatible with the job grade as dictated by the Principal Investigator or the project’s Study Coordinator.

This list of responsibilities is not exhaustive, and the role may encompass additional tasks reasonably aligned with the job’s scope and grade.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience:

Essential Criteria:

– A Bachelor’s degree followed by a Master’s level qualification in a pertinent field.
– A commitment to ongoing professional and educational advancement.
– Exceptional project management and collaborative abilities.
– Outstanding communication and presentation skills.
– A thorough understanding of research ethics and governance procedures.
– High-level organizational acumen, capable of problem-solving and planning.
– Proficient in written English and adept in creating detailed reports and academic papers.
– A background in clinical study management/co-ordination.
– Database management proficiency and data analysis skills, with familiarity in statistical software.
– Experience in conducting research interviews, psychological assessments, and clinical evaluations in patient populations.

Desirable Criteria:

– GCP training, along with Human Tissue Act and Informed Consent training.
– Authoring first-author peer-reviewed publications.
– Prior experience with affective disorders or similar patient demographics.

Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service and Occupational Health clearances.

Application Deadline: 26th March 2024