Research Assistant (Starter Fellowship) (Cardiff university)

Vacancy Reference Number
9189BR
Closing Date
4 Dec 2019
Salary
£27,511 - £31,866 per annum
Address
Cardiff
Duration
Fixed term, 2 years

The Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute (NMHRI) brings together world-class leaders in neuroscience, mental health and psychology research from Cardiff University and beyond to further the understanding and treatment of major psychiatric and neurological disorders, which represent some of the greatest challenges to society. The Institute membership is drawn broadly from the Schools of Medicine, Biosciences, Psychology and Optometry.

This post is aimed at researchers early in their careers who wish to develop their research plans to enable them to compete for external funding. The successful applicant will be required to undertake research, preferably within the specialist area of neurodevelopmental disorders in line with the interests of the funder (http://www.waterloofoundation.org.uk/ChildDevelopmentResearch.html) although research in the areas of neuroplasticity, neuroexcitation or neurodegeneration would be considered; publish in high quality research journals; pursue excellence in research and inspire others to do the same. They will receive expert supervision to develop their research plans and interests and increasing independence.

The successful candidate will have a degree in a related discipline and/or experience of working within the specialist or a related discipline. You will possess existing knowledge of specialist research methods and techniques and proven ability to analyse complex information.  In addition, you will be an excellent communicator and team player, creative, self-motivated and organised. A postgraduate degree at PhD level (or nearing completion / submission) in neuroscience, psychology, medical sciences, statistics, bioinformatics or a related subject is desirable for this post.

This post is full time (35 hours per week) and available immediately. The post is funded through "The Waterloo Foundation Future Minds Programme” and is fixed term for two years.

Salary: £27,511 - £31,866 per annum (Grade 5), but please note that it is anticipated the maximum starting salary for this post will be £27,511 (per annum).

Date advert posted: Wednesday, 13 November 2019

Closing date: Wednesday, 4 December 2019

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds. We therefore welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age.  In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.

Job Description

Main function

To contribute to research within the specialist area of Neurodevelopmental Disorders in line with the interests of The Waterloo Foundation (http://www.waterloofoundation.org.uk/ChildDevelopmentResearch.html), although research in the areas of Neuroplasticity, Neuroexcitation or Neurodegeneration would be considered; to publish in high quality research journals, and to pursue excellence in research and inspire others to do the same.  

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Research

• To undertake research, e.g. by planning and design, conducting and recording the outcome of experiments.
• Actively participate within the research group, communicating and presenting research at meetings, through publications and other recognised avenues as appropriate, ensuring information is communicated to internal and external partners including The Waterloo Foundation.
• To contribute to research publications and presentations as required.
• To analyse and communicate complex ideas, concepts and data using appropriate methods and packages.
• To resolve issues and support senior colleagues in devising procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting.
• To generate research output and contribute to the development of independent  and original ideas as appropriate.
• To provide support in research activities for undergraduate courses and research programmes and provide guidance to junior members of staff within the research team.
• To maintain and update area of specialist knowledge, researching and critically appraising relevant literature within the area.

Other

• To undergo personal and professional development that is appropriate to and which will enhance performance.
• To participate in School administration and activities to promote the School and its work to the wider University and the outside world.
• To abide by the University policies on Health and Safety and Equality and Diversity.
• To ensure that an understanding of the importance of confidentiality is applied when undertaking all duties.
• Any other duties not included above, but consistent with the role.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

Qualifications and Education


1. A degree in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

2. Expertise in research methods and techniques within specialist field.

3. Proven ability to analyse complex information.

4. Ability to demonstrate the capability and drive to succeed in securing research funding.

Communication and Team Working

5. Proven communication skills, including presentation to various audiences.

6. Excellent organisational and team-working skills.

Other

7. Proven ability to demonstrate creativity, innovation and teamworking within work.

Desirable Criteria

8. Postgraduate degree at PhD level (or nearing completion / submission) in neuroscience, psychology, medical sciences, statistics, bioinformatics or a related subject area, or relevant industrial experience.

9. Relevant professional qualification(s).

10. Evidence of collaborations with industry.

11. Proven ability to work without close supervision.

12.  Proven ability to adapt to the changing requirements of the Higher Education community.
 

Additional Information

IMPORTANT: Evidencing Criteria

It is School of Medicine's policy to use the person specification as a key tool for short-listing. Candidates should evidence that they meet ALL of the essential criteria as well as, where relevant, the desirable. As part of the application process you will be asked to provide this evidence via a supporting statement.

Please ensure when submitting this document / attaching it to your application profile you name it with the vacancy reference number, in this instance for this post, 9189BR

If candidates do not provide written evidence of meeting all of the essential criteria then their application will not be progressed. The School of Medicine welcome the submission of CVs to accompany evidence of the job-based criteria.

For more information and to apply, please click here.