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- Tasks: Join the Research Committee to review grant applications and engage in insightful discussions.
- Company: Cure Parkinson’s, a leading charity focused on advancing Parkinson’s research.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and build a network in the research community.
- Other info: Voluntary internship with opportunities for professional development and networking.
- Why this job: Get an insider's view of the grant review process and contribute to impactful research.
- Qualifications: Must be a PhD student or post-doctoral researcher in Parkinson’s research.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
Our internship offers early-career researchers a firsthand experience with the grant review process. In 2023, Cure Parkinson’s launched its Research Committee Internship Programme to give early-career researchers an inside look at how research funding decisions are made. Each year, PhD students and post-doctoral researchers working in preclinical or clinical Parkinson’s research are invited to apply for a one-year, voluntary internship on Cure Parkinson’s Research Committee.
The Research Committee is a group of 16-20 volunteers that review and assess Cure Parkinson’s grant funding applications. It is made up of world-leading research scientists in Parkinson’s, including both preclinical and clinical experts, industry representatives, and people with Parkinson’s. The aim of the initiative is to provide early-career researchers with experience and exposure to the grant review process by joining the research committee on four grant review meetings to evaluate research proposals.
This unique opportunity offers first-hand experience of the grant review process, allowing interns to see what goes into reviewing research proposals and recommending projects for funding. Throughout the year, interns:
- Participate in quarterly Research Committee meetings, where leading Parkinson’s experts review and assess funding applications.
- Are actively involved in reviewing proposals, contributing to discussions and presenting and reviewing applications to the committee.
- Gain mentorship from experienced committee members.
- Build valuable networks within the Parkinson’s research community.
The internship is designed to support the professional development of emerging researchers by providing insights into the charitable research landscape, strengthening critical evaluation skills, and encouraging a broader understanding of the research funding ecosystem. Applicants for these positions must be either a PhD student or in post-doctoral training based in the UK or Europe, working directly in either preclinical or clinical Parkinson’s research.
Applications for 2026 are now closed. Please check back again in Autumn 2026 for the next application round. Since the initiative’s inception in 2023, the internship has supported 5 early-career researchers across 4 different institutions.
Here is what our 2025 interns said about the experience:
“The internship was a fantastic ‘behind the scenes’ opportunity to understand in detail how the grant application process works. I found the discussions among the committee members to be very insightful and it really highlighted to me the importance of having a realistic project timeframe. I would highly recommend that ECRs apply for the research committee position as I found it to be a valuable experience.” – Áine Heffernan, University of Edinburgh
“For those considering applying to the internship scheme, in order to make the most of it, it is really important to remain open to new concepts and methodologies whilst using your own expertise to remain constructively critical. I would recommend this opportunity to anybody who is considering becoming an independent researcher in the future.” – Dr James Conway, University College London
Research Committee Intern in Edinburgh employer: Cure Parkinson’s Trust
Contact Detail:
Cure Parkinson’s Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Committee Intern in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past interns and committee members on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have. Building connections can give you insider knowledge and make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your understanding of the grant review process. Familiarise yourself with common funding criteria and be ready to discuss how your research aligns with the goals of Cure Parkinson’s. Show us you’re passionate about making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a good follow-up! After any meetings or networking events, drop a quick thank-you email to those you spoke with. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep an eye on our website for updates on future application rounds. Being proactive and checking back regularly shows your commitment and interest in the internship. We want to see that you’re eager to join our community!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Committee Intern in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Research: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Parkinson’s research shine through. We want to see why you’re excited about this opportunity and how it aligns with your career goals.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in preclinical or clinical research. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and understanding of the grant review process.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your ideas flow logically. This will help us understand your perspective better.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials correctly and can consider you for this exciting internship.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cure Parkinson’s Trust
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and how it fits into the broader context of Parkinson’s studies. Be ready to discuss your work and its implications, as this will show your passion and understanding of the field.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Grant Review Process
Before the interview, take some time to learn about how grant applications are assessed. Understanding the criteria and what committee members look for can help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This shows your genuine interest in the internship and helps you gauge if the position aligns with your career goals. Ask about the mentorship opportunities or the types of projects you might be involved with.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with a committee, highlight any past experiences where you’ve successfully collaborated with others. Emphasising your ability to contribute to discussions and work as part of a team will make you a strong candidate.