Clinical Research Fellow in Mood Disorders

NHS; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 44,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent healthcare organization in Birmingham is looking for a Clinical Research Fellow in Mood Disorders. This full-time position supports a translational research clinic focusing on providing patient assessments and conducting various studies on mood disorders. The successful candidate will work under guidance from experienced clinicians and have opportunities for academic progression. Competitive salary and dedicated support from a research team are provided.

Qualifications

• Full registration with the GMC and a licence to practice at the time of appointment.
• Understanding and first-hand experience of research methods.
• Experience of psychiatry and published research.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver the depression research clinic including assessments.
• Conduct research activities related to cohort studies and clinical trials.
• Assist with a range of clinical trials on mood disorders.

Skills

Analytical and problem-solving capability

Strong interpersonal skills

Ability to communicate complex information clearly

Education

MBBS / MBChB or equivalent medical qualification

Completion of Foundation Training year 1 or equivalent

Post-graduate qualification such as MRCPsych

Job description

Clinical Research Fellow in Mood Disorders

Closing date: 03 December 2025

We are seeking to appoint a full‑time Clinical Research Fellow to support the delivery of a translational research depression clinic in Birmingham, funded by the NIHR Mental Health Mission Midlands Translational Research Centre.

The clinic will offer fast access to assessment and advice for patients with depression referred directly from primary care, and will provide a recruitment pathway into a cohort study that uses a digital data collection platform called DECODE. It will also host other studies, including randomised controlled trials focused on helping people with mood disorders.

The successful postholder will be supported by a dedicated Consultant Psychiatrist, the Research Lead for Mood Disorders Research, and the Co‑Director for the Midlands Translational Research Centre, Prof Marwaha. The Trust’s Research and Development (R&D) Department will provide a dedicated team of lead researchers, clinical research nurses, non‑clinical delivery staff, project managers and governance support. This team will enable the postholder to work as part of a delivery team and will provide access to training where required.

Main duties of the job

• Develop and deliver the depression research clinic, including assessments of patients and delivery of advice to GPs.
• Conduct research activities related to a cohort study and industry‑funded trials of new pharmacological agents.
• Assist the BSMHFT with the delivery of a range of clinical trials on mood disorders, including early‑phase and novel treatment trials projected to start in 2025.
• Develop research outputs; pursue academic training and career progression towards ACF/ACL and PhD funding when desired.
• Attend educational activities and work toward registration for a higher degree; supported in applying for further funding.

About us

Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust provides a wide range of mental‑health services to over 70,000 people each year. Our 4,000 clinical and support staff deliver high‑quality care and training, and we are recognised nationally for our research and innovation.

We are dedicated to cultural diversity and to ensuring that everyone can access the care they need, especially in areas with high deprivation.

Job responsibilities

• Refer to the accompanying job description for full details of the roles and responsibilities of this post.

If you have any questions please contact Professor Steven Marwaha: [e-mail] or [e-mail].

Person Specification

• MBBS / MBChB or equivalent medical qualification.
• Full registration with the GMC and a licence to practice at the time of appointment.
• Completion of Foundation Training year 1 or equivalent.
• Understanding and first‑hand experience of research methods beyond the degree course and processes.
• Strong knowledge of Good Clinical Practice.
• Analytical and problem‑solving capability.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly, both verbally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Dedication to departmental and institute objectives.
• Post‑graduate qualification such as MRCPsych Part A‑C at the appropriate level, or equivalent.
• Research experience such as a BSc Upper Second Class Honours, Masters or equivalent.
• In good standing with the GMC – no restrictions or conditions on practice.
• Experience of psychiatry.
• Understanding and experience of research methods and processes related to the study of mental illness.
• Published research.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. A submission for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service will be required to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust

Salary: £44,439 to £65,048 per annum, based on level (FY2 – ST6).