Higher Research Assistant
Go back Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear (CNTW) NHS Foundation Trust
Closing date: 02 June 2026
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Research Assistant to join the CNTW Research Delivery team to support the delivery of two NIHR Portfolio Studies focused on neurostimulation. The post is for 36 months and responsibilities will be split between each study.
Study 1: Bipolar Depression
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive form of brain stimulation that uses a very small electrical current applied through the scalp and has shown promise as a treatment for depression. Participants must meet specific eligibility criteria, which will be assessed by the research team. People who do not meet the study criteria or for whom tDCS is not suitable will not be able to take part.
Study 2: Adolescents with Depression (rTMS)
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a form of non-invasive brain stimulation which doesn't require an anaesthetic and is administered in clinic. It could represent a treatment option for adolescents with depression who have not recovered after an anti-depressant and psychological treatment or do not want those treatments. The successful applicant will be involved in the delivery of the rTMS intervention as well as supporting wider research activities. A total of 50 adolescents with depression aged 14-19 will be recruited. Experience of working with children and adolescents is desirable.
Responsibilities
Under the supervision of senior colleagues, the post holder will support the research team to facilitate recruitment of participants into these two studies and support study delivery. This will involve providing relevant information to patients about the studies and ensuring the trials are undertaken in accordance with good clinical practice and regulatory standards. The Higher Research Assistant will need to have good communication skills and be willing to work across organisational boundaries. Daily activities will involve data collection, participant identification, screening, coordination of the wider research team, administrative support in addition to interventional delivery.
Person Specification
Education and Qualification
* 2:1 or higher degree in psychology or a health sciences related degree.
* Eligible for an honorary NHS research contract including satisfactory CRB clearance.
Knowledge and Experience
* Broad familiarity with clinical assessment of symptoms in people with mental health problems.
* Previous experience in administering psychological assessments with good level of practical skill.
Skills and Competencies
* Able to deal with public and colleagues in a pleasant and polite manner at all times.
* The ability to work independently and use one's initiative, with strong organisational skills.
* Ability to engage with patients with a mental health diagnosis.
* An ability to work effectively across a range of clinical and academic research settings.
* Mobile and able to travel independently without loss of efficiency.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
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