Research Assistant (Optometrist) (Clinical Co-ordinator)

HIRANI; Belfast City District; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Queen's University Belfast seeks a Research Assistant (Optometrist) to coordinate ophthalmology trials within NICRF. The role involves patient screening, consent, and clinical assessments to support high-quality studies.

The successful candidate will work with NCCRF staff, relocate to the iREACH Health Building at Belfast City Hospital, and contribute to trial portfolio growth in a leading research environment.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area (e.g., Optometry).
• Registered Optometrist (GOC) or eligible to register.
• Relevant experience in Optometry (post-registration).
• Breadth/depth of research methods knowledge to work within own area.
• Experience taking retinal images using fundus photography or OCT.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and deliver ophthalmology/vision science studies within NICRF.
• Screen and recruit participants; obtain informed consent and perform clinical assessments.
• Manage study delivery, data collection and follow-up per protocols and SOPs.
• Support growth of NICRF trial portfolio and ensure high-quality trial delivery.

Skills

Optometry

Clinical research coordination

Informed consent

Patient recruitment

Ophthalmology

Education

Degree in Optometry

Tools

Fundus photography

OCT

Job description

Research Assistant (Optometrist) (Clinical Co-ordinator)

• Queen's University Belfast


• Belfast


• £35,136 - £40,316 per annum (with an additional market supplement)

The post holder will work as a key member of the Northern Ireland Clinical Research Facility (NICRF) team to support, coordinate and deliver high-quality clinical research, with a focus on Ophthalmology and Vision Science studies.

The role involves coordinating and contributing to a portfolio of clinical trials and research studies on a day-to-day basis, working both independently and under appropriate supervision as required. The post holder will undertake agreed responsibilities within study delivery, which may include participant screening and recruitment, informed consent, clinical assessments, patient care, study management and follow-up, in accordance with study protocols and local and national regulatory, research and professional guidelines, policies and standard operating procedures.

Through this role, the post holder will support the growth of the NICRF clinical trial portfolio and contribute to excellence in clinical trial delivery. The post will initially be based within the Northern Ireland Clinical Research Facility (NICRF) and will relocate to the iREACH Health building at Belfast City Hospital on its opening.

About the person:

The successful applicant must demonstrate the following essential criteria:

Degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area e.g. Optometry.

Registered Optometrist (GOC Registered and appropriate professional indemnity cover). Or eligibility to be registered to fulfil the requirements of the post.

Relevant experience in Optometry, post registration.

Sufficient breadth or depth of specialist knowledge in the discipline of research methods and techniques to work within own area.

Experience taking retinal images using either fundus photography or Optical Coherence Tomography.

Manage Consent