Research Associate - Department of Biomedical Sciences - 105834 - Grade 6

University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Birmingham seeks a Research Associate to join the biofluids workstream of the mTBI-Predict program. This full-time position involves processing samples and conducting analyses to identify biomarkers in mild traumatic brain injury. The role offers opportunities for a PhD registration and is suited for candidates with a background in Biomedical Sciences or related fields.

Qualifications

• Experience with biological assays
• Understanding of clinical trials
• Practical research skills

Responsibilities

• Collect and analyse biological samples
• Manage data collection and experiments
• Present research findings

Skills

Data analysis

Teamwork

Time-management

Public engagement

Communication

Education

BSc or MSc in Physiology and Health Sciences

PhD in relevant field (preferred)

Tools

ELISA

RT-PCR

Job description

Position Details

Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £32,546 to £35,116 with potential progression once in post to £39,355

Grade: 6

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to 1 year, with the possibility of extension

Closing date: 19th June 2025

Interview date: 15th July 2025

'Open House' Drop In Session:We will be holding an ‘open house’ drop in session at the University’s Exchange building, in Centenary Square, Birmingham, between 10am and 5pm on Friday 6th June 2025. If you’re interested in working at the University of Birmingham and perhaps have a few questions, this is an opportunity to meet colleagues in the Recruitment team. It will be a relaxed and informal event – you can drop in at any time.

Background

Applications are invited for a Full-time Research Associate Position for the biofluids workstream of mTBI-Predict, with an expected start date of September 2025.mTBI-Predict is a multiyear research programme funded by the Department of Defense, with this 1-year post. Further funding is in place for extension of the time in post, but this will depend on performance. Due to the nature of the project, a 12-month probation period will be in place for this role, with successful candidates expected to meet key performance indicators within the first three months. There will also be the opportunity for the post holder to register for a PhD as part of the role.

The overarching aim of the mTBI-Predict programme is to identify accurate, reproducible biomarkers in m-TBI that will predict the most common and disabling consequences of mTBI: primarily persistent post-traumatic headache, as well as cognitive dysfunction, depression, PTSD, dizziness and return to work. This will be achieved through a harmonised programme of detailed clinical phenotyping of acute mTBI patients coupled with state-of-the-art multimodal biomarker evaluation (brain imaging, fluid biomarkers, steroid hormones, visual, vestibular, cerebral physiology, and EEG). The programme is divided into workstreams, the Research Associatepost described here is for the biofluids workstream that is being led by Dr Lisa Hill within the Department of Biomedical Sciences.

The Research Associatewill be responsible for the processing and analysing of samples (e.g. blood, saliva, hair) by performing biological assays (e.g. ELISA, RT-PCR) to measure levels of target proteins, miRNAs, hormones and metabolites together with data collection and analysis. The candidate will be part of an integrative and multi-disciplinary team of researchers and clinicians working collaboratively to deliver this workstream.

To apply, please upload a cover letter and CV.

We expect to interview shortlisted candidates in person.

Role Summary

The role will involve sample collection, analysis and data collection using a range of biological assays to assess the impact of mTBI. The Research Associatewill be part of an integrative and multi-disciplinary team of researchers and clinicians working collaboratively to deliver this workstream.

Main Duties

• Assist in the collection and storage of samples and data; liaising with the Human Biomaterials Resource Centre and The Birmingham NIHR/Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility (CRF).
• Analyse and manage collected biological samples as directed; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews and data upload.
• Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research
• Participate in research team meetings
• To present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• To provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Participate and contribute to public engagement events
• Analyse research data as directed
• Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification

• An BSc or MSc Degree in the area of Physiology and Health Sciences, Biomedical Sciences or Neuroscience. A PhD Degree in these areas of research preferred but not necessary.
• Understanding of research and conducting of human (clinical) trials.
• Preferably practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques. That is, experience with ELISA, RT-PCR and handling biological samples.
• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively
• Ability to access and organise resources successfully
• Strong organisation and time-management skills
• Cooperative nature and strong teamwork skills, with a willingness to work as part of a large multi-disciplinary team
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to public engagement activities
• Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques
• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively
• Ability to access and organise resources successfully
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Further particulars can be foundhere

Informal enquiries to Dr Lisa Hill, email: [e-mail]

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website .