Job summary
The aim of this 2-year project is to provide evidence for the need and acceptability of routine sensory motor assessments and treatment for autistic adults without Learning Disabilities, and to identify and map appropriate intervention pathways.
Research Associate (RA) responsibilities
The RA will join a multidisciplinary team experienced in autism research, Occupational Therapy, Patient and Public Involvement (PPI), delivery of complex interventions, and economic evaluation. Responsibilities include monitoring participant recruitment, communicating with OTs, research team, and participants, and collating assessment reports and questionnaires into spreadsheets. The RA will perform quantitative and qualitative analysis (e.g., framework analysis) on the data, collaborate with the Chief Investigator on workshops and surveys, help design the toolkit, and contribute to disseminating findings through publications, presentations, PPI, and clinical materials.
Desirable skills
Experience working with autistic adults, conducting research with autistic adults, co-producing research with autistic people, sensory motor research, and knowledge of the brain and cognitive underpinnings of sensory and motor difficulties in autism are desirable.
Main duties
The role involves two phases:
1. Phase 1: Recruit autistic adults from diagnostic clinics, conduct SMD assessments, provide reports with support recommendations, and collect follow-up data via surveys and open-ended questions to assess feasibility and acceptability.
2. Phase 2: Develop a toolkit on SMD assessments and interventions through workshops and surveys with stakeholders.
Funding is provided by an NIHR Research for Patient Benefit grant.
About us
Greater Manchester Mental Health (GMMH) Foundation Trust employs over 6,400 staff across more than 160 locations, providing a range of mental health and substance misuse services in Greater Manchester and beyond. We are a vibrant, innovative community offering opportunities for learning, development, and idea generation.
Additional job details
The role involves research grants writing, systematic reviews, study design, research management, data analysis, stakeholder engagement, presentation, and administrative activities supporting funding bids. The post requires independent travel across the Trust and occasionally the North West region, adherence to data and safety regulations, and flexibility for additional tasks.
Person Specification
Qualifications: Good Honours Degree in Psychology or relevant field (2:1 or above) and a Master's degree or equivalent experience; PhD preferred.
Experience: Quantitative and qualitative research in mental health/Autism, proficiency with statistical and qualitative software (e.g., SPSS, nVivo), experience with PPI events.
Skills & Abilities: Organizing tasks, advanced computer skills, independent working, excellent communication.
Knowledge: Analysis and interpretation of research outcomes.
Other: Reliable independent travel method.
This post is subject to DBS check and may require sponsorship. Additional details on these requirements are provided in the attached documents.
Employer details
Greater Manchester Mental Health NHSFT, Central Park, Northampton Road, Manchester, M40 5BP. For more info, visit the employer's website. #J-18808-Ljbffr