At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver innovative exercise interventions for people with Parkinson’s disease and support their journey.
- Company: Join a world-leading research department focused on movement disorders and neuroscience.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days of holiday, a pension scheme, and access to an on-site gym.
- Other info: Part-time role with flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patients' lives while advancing your career in clinical research.
- Qualifications: Qualified Physiotherapist with experience in neurological conditions and group-based interventions.
The Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences is a world-leading group that brings together expertise across the clinical and basic science spectrum of the physiology and pathology of human movement and movement disorders. The Department is in a unique position of pursuing research in basic neuroscience that is of direct translational benefit to neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), dystonia, stroke, motor neurone disease, peripheral nerve disorders and spinal cord injury. Our Research Groups use a powerful combination of modern non-invasive research technology, theoretical and computational approaches and a variety of cellular, animal and human models to explore how the brain controls normal movement, and how disease leads to disordered control of movement.
We are seeking a proactive and skilled researcher to deliver the Power-PD intervention and contribute to the overall research performance of the Power-PD study. The study evaluates whether a flexible “hybrid” exercise group can support people with Parkinson’s disease to remain physically active and better manage their symptoms. The hybrid model allows participants to attend sessions either in person or online from home, depending on their needs.
You will be responsible for delivering the intervention in line with the study’s Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), including delivery of exercise sessions, facilitation of peer support discussions, and day-to-day management of the group. You will also provide clinical support to participants in relation to their PD as required. You will deliver the intervention alongside a rehabilitation assistant and will be responsible for supervising and supporting the assistant during sessions. You will also be involved in routine data collection as part of the study.
An honorary contract may be sought from NHS Foundation Trust, for which a DBS check will be required. The role is available immediately and funded by the National Institute for Health and Social Care Research (NIHR) for 17 months in the first instance. The post is offered part-time at 3.65 hours per week (0.10 Full Time Equivalent).
If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online, or have any queries regarding the application process, please contact the Institute of Neurology HR Team (ion.hradmin@ucl.ac.uk).
A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below. To apply, please upload a current CV, complete the online application form, and use the supporting statement section or upload a cover letter to outline how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for the role. Please do not upload any additional attachments as these will not be considered by the selection panel.
You will be a qualified Physiotherapist with current registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). You will have experience in the assessment and treatment of people with neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, and in delivering group-based exercise interventions. You will be confident in supporting behaviour change and self-management, with the ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively to participants.
This role does not meet the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa certificate of sponsorship under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore UCL will not be able to sponsor individuals who require right to work in the UK to carry out this role.
Starting salary offered in the range £4,510.30 - £5,258.60 (i.e., 10% of £45,103 - £52,586) per annum, inclusive of London Allowance. As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer great benefits, some of which are below:
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days)
- Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
The Institute prides itself on operating in an all-inclusive environment irrespective of personal, physical, or social characteristics. Teamwork is highly valued, individual strengths are recognised and celebrated, and we are committed to advancing the careers of everyone. 12% of Institute staff are actively working on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives; visit our EDI website for more information about our initiatives and priorities. The Institute also holds an Athena SWAN Gold award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce; these include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQI+ and gender diverse people in all roles, and women in Grade 9 and 10 roles.
Clinical Research Fellow (Physiotherapist) employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
At the Institute of Neurology, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the field of clinical research, particularly for those passionate about advancing the understanding of neurological disorders. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our extensive benefits package, including 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development within a supportive and inclusive work culture. Located in London, we offer a dynamic environment where diversity is celebrated, and every team member's contributions are valued, making it an ideal place for dedicated professionals to thrive.
Contact Details:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Clinical Research Fellow (Physiotherapist)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of physiotherapy and clinical research. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to your experience with neurological conditions and group-based interventions. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for research and patient care during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've supported behaviour change in patients or contributed to group exercise sessions. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Clinical Research Fellow (Physiotherapist)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Clinical Research Fellow. Highlight your experience with neurological conditions and group-based exercise interventions, as these are key for us.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use the supporting statement section or upload a cover letter that clearly outlines how you meet both the essential and desirable criteria. This is your chance to show us why you're the perfect fit!
Follow the Application Instructions:Stick to the application guidelines! Upload only the required documents and avoid any additional attachments, as they won't be considered by the selection panel. We want to keep it simple and straightforward.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for the role shine through in your application. We love candidates who are proactive and passionate about supporting people with Parkinson’s disease and improving their quality of life.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions. Familiarise yourself with the latest research and interventions, especially those related to exercise and behaviour change. This will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Demonstrate Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience in delivering group-based exercise interventions. Think of specific examples where you've successfully supported behaviour change or managed a group. Be ready to explain how you would apply these skills in the Power-PD study context.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the research being conducted. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the environment is right for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to demonstrate your communication skills.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be supervising a rehabilitation assistant, highlight your teamwork and leadership abilities. Share experiences where you've collaborated effectively with others, especially in a clinical setting. This will reassure them that you can manage and support your colleagues while delivering high-quality care.
