Position Details
Department of Inflammation and Ageing, School of Infection, Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medicine and Health
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Grade: 6
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to April 2027 (9 months)
Closing date: 30th April 2026
Background
Applications are invited for a Full‑time Research Assistant Position for the US Department of Defense‑funded project RETINA‑TBI. The overarching aim of RETINA‑TBI is to identify retinal biomarkers for intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion after severe traumatic brain injury. The project is led by Prof Richard Blanch.
The Research Assistant will support patient assessments, including optical coherence tomography, pupillometry, near‑infra‑red spectroscopy, transcranial Doppler and laboratory processing of serum and microdialysate. The role will involve data collection, analysis, patient recruitment and participation in team meetings.
Main Duties
* Perform visual and cerebral physiology testing in the Intensive Care Unit and the Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility (CRF).
* Retrieve, process and analyse biofluid samples including blood and cerebral microdialysate.
* Analyse and manage collected ocular and cerebral data.
* Recruit and interact with patients and their families.
* Carry out administrative tasks related to the delivery of the research.
* Participate in research team meetings.
* Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or sections thereof.
* Provide guidance to support staff and students as required.
* Participate in public engagement events.
* Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods.
* Resolve problems that may affect research objectives and deadlines.
* Promote equality and values diversity, acting as a role model.
Person Specification
* BSc or Masters Degree in Optometry, Orthoptics, Vision Science, Physiology and Health Sciences, Biomedical Sciences or Neuroscience.
* Understanding of human clinical trials and research methodology.
* Practical experience with relevant techniques (OCT, laboratory processing of human samples) is desirable; training will be provided.
* Strong analytical and communication skills.
* Excellent time‑management and organisational abilities.
* Team‑working skills and willingness to collaborate in a multidisciplinary team.
* Experience or willingness to contribute to public engagement.
* Proficient IT skills for data collection and database management.
* Knowledge of the Equality Act 2010 and commitment to equality and diversity.
Application Process
To apply, please upload a cover letter and CV. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in person.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University of Birmingham welcomes and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, irrespective of age, disability, family or parental status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity, nationality, mother language, religion, or sexual orientation.
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