Are you a skilled clinician ready to apply your nursing expertise to the frontline of medical research?
Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of life-threatening infection worldwide, and with the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the need for new preventive strategies is urgent. As a Fleming Initiative Clinical Research Nurse in Dr Dinesh Aggarwal’s group, you will play a hands-on role in a pioneering controlled human infection study designed to understand immune response to this pathogen. Further, your professional development will be supported by Ms Lydia Slater, a senior and experienced research nurse in Prof Chris Chiu’s group.
This position offers a rare opportunity to work on a world-leading study involving a carefully controlled human challenge model, where a surgical suture is placed in the skin of healthy volunteers and inoculated with S. aureus. This work is underexplored and essential for accelerating the development of new vaccines and treatments.
We are seeking a committed and enthusiastic Registered Nurse with a strong background in wound management, surgery, and/or infection control. You will be central to the safety and success of this trial, guiding participants through screening, inoculation, and recovery. If you are patient-focused, eager to develop skills in clinical research, and ready to work in a dynamic academic environment, we want to hear from you.
You will provide high-quality clinical care and research delivery within a dedicated multidisciplinary team. Working closely with Dr Dinesh Aggarwal and Professor Chris Chiu’s experienced human challenge team, you will:
1. Champion the participant journey: Act as the primary point of contact for volunteers, managing their experience from screening and recruitment through to enrolment and follow-up, ensuring they feel informed, supported, and valued throughout.
2. Deliver clinical excellence: Assist with the unique bacterial inoculation procedures (including suturing and biopsy assistance) and perform essential clinical skills, including phlebotomy and wound management, to the highest standards.
3. Ensure participant safety: Closely monitor participants during their inpatient stay in our dedicated quarantine facility, identifying and reporting adverse events promptly to ensure their wellbeing.
4. Drive data collection: Collect a wide range of microbiological and host samples and maintain accurate clinical documentation and electronic data records in line with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards.
5. Collaborate across disciplines: Work as part of a supportive team of nurses, doctors, and scientists, assisting with the wider portfolio of controlled human infection models when required to ensure successful study delivery.
We are looking for a motivated Registered Nurse (NMC) with at least two years of post-registration experience who is keen to transition into or advance their career in clinical research. To succeed in this role, you will need:
6. Clinical & Technical Expertise: A strong clinical background, ideally with experience in wound management, surgical theatres, or dermatology. Proficiency in phlebotomy is essential, and you must be confident working independently in a clinical setting.
7. Research Awareness: A solid understanding of ethical practice, patient confidentiality, and infection control. Knowledge of GCP and the lifecycle of clinical trials is desirable, though full training will be provided.
8. Adaptability & Flexibility: The ability to work flexibly, including supporting weekend shifts and working outside normal hours during 10-day inpatient quarantine periods.
9. Communication & Collaboration: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to guide participants through complex procedures, alongside a collaborative approach to working within a diverse research team.
10. The chance to contribute to the Fleming Initiative, a transformative partnership between Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust dedicated to tackling AMR.
11. NHS Career Continuity: This is an Agenda for Change post. You will hold an honorary clinical contract, meaning your NHS career progression and pension contributions can continue seamlessly.
12. World-class professional development: You will be embedded within Dr Dinesh Aggarwal’s group and be fully supported by Prof Chris Chiu’s team, gaining exposure to world-leading research. We provide excellent training in clinical research delivery, GCP, and study-specific procedures.
13. Sector-leading benefits: Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
14. A supportive environment: Be part of a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative work culture with various and resources designed to support your personal and professional .