Research Associate or Senior Research Associate in Autism Research

Job number     ACAD104505
Division/School     Bristol Medical School
Contract type    Open Ended
Working pattern    Part time
Salary    Grade I: £33,797 to £38,017 per annum (pro rata) Grade J: £38,017 to £42,792 per annum (pro rata)
Closing date for applications     05-Apr-2020

We are seeking an enthusiastic individual to be the Research Associate or Senior Research Associate for the STRATA Trial (SerTRaline for AnxieTy in adults with a diagnosis of Autism). This post offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced researcher to join a multidisciplinary team within the University of Bristol, and collaborators at participating centres. 

STRATA is a randomised controlled trial (RCT) funded by the National Institute for Health Research to determine the effectiveness of sertraline in reducing symptoms of anxiety in adults with a diagnosis of autism compared with placebo. 306 participants will be recruited from Autism services across four centres in the UK and one in Australia. 

This post is central to the success of the trial. The successful candidate will require strong organisational and research skills to support the 24-month recruitment and follow-up phases, covering sites within the South West of England.  

The main task is to co-ordinate all aspects of recruitment for the trial across the South West of England, under the supervision of the Chief Investigator (Dr Dheeraj Rai) and the Trial Manager in collaboration with the wider trial team. The tasks will include organising the recruitment of participants, and data collection at baseline and follow-up, and regular contact with each recruited participant.  You will liaise closely with service providers and R&D departments at each site. 

The role provides an excellent opportunity to develop skills in RCT research in autism and mental health. Training and mentorship will be available to meet the specific aims of the project as well as your overall career development. The appointment will be made at the relevant grade based on previous experience. Applicants for Senior Research Associate grade will be expected to articulate their future plans and how these would be a good fit for the aims of the research group. 

Please note: subject to additional funding becoming available there may be an opportunity to increase hours of work to support coordination of research activities within the wider autism research group - the candidate should make clear in their cover letter if they wish to be considered for additional hours. 

Fro informal enquiries please contact:  Dr Dheeraj Rai, Dheeraj.rai@bristol.ac.uk  

We welcome applications from all members of our community and are particularly encouraging those from diverse groups, such as members of the LGBT+ and BAME communities, to join us.