Job Overview
Job Overview
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us. Please see below for detailed job description of the role.
Main duties of the job
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Research Optometrist to join the Research Department at UHS. The successful candidate will be based in the Research Department and will work closely with the Southampton ophthalmology research team to support and deliver a broad portfolio of ophthalmic clinical trials, ranging from Phase 1 to Phase 4, including both CTIMP and ATIMP trials. You will collaborate with Consultant Ophthalmologists, Research fellows, research nurses, trial coordinators, and fellow Optometrists to ensure high-quality, safe, and compliant research delivery, while maintaining an excellent patient experience throughout the research pathway. This role will involve a combination of research-focused Optometry clinics and protocol-driven specialist assessments for clinical trials, including paediatric and adult studies. Depending on study requirements, there may also be opportunities to contribute to research activity across cornea, glaucoma, vitreoretinal, and eye casualty research pathways. The post holder would be accountable to research matron and R&D Head of nursing and Health professions.
Working for our organisation
University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations.
Located on the south coast with an international airport and direct rail links to London, Southampton offers an ideal setting to live and work, with the New Forest, South Downs and Jurassic Coast.
At UHS we’re committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients.
At UHS, we proudly champion individuality, recognizing that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We’re committed to creating an anti-racist, anti-discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute.
Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities
The successful candidate will ideally have experience in ophthalmology and Optometry and a strong interest in clinical research. You will be patient-focused, empathetic, and an effective communicator, working with both adult and paediatric patients, including those with complex visual impairment or communication needs. The role requires the ability to work independently within a structured research environment while contributing effectively to a busy, multidisciplinary Research Department. This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking research team that values the clinical and research expertise Optometrists bring and actively supports ongoing professional development.
Qualifications, Knowledge And Experience
Essential criteria
* BSc (hons) in Optometry
* Professional/clinical knowledge acquired through Degree, clinical placement, plus advanced clinical training and experience to Masters level or equivalent
* Registered with General Optical Council (following pre-registration year and professional exams for Diploma in Optometry)
* Post qualification optometry experience
* Evidence of continued professional development.
Desirable criteria
* Member of Association of Optometrists
* College of Optometrists Higher Qualifications or working towards them
* Experience in glaucoma shared care provision and other extended roles
* Member of the College of Optometrists
* Previous experience of hospital Optometry
* Some experience in teaching and presenting to other professionals
Skills and competencies
Essential criteria
* Advanced analytical thinking
* Collaborative approach
* Communication
* General IT skills
* Manual dexterity
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