At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee a groundbreaking research trial improving mental health for children in care.
- Company: Join UCL, the UK's top university for Psychology and Neuroscience research.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, hybrid working, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Open to diverse candidates; we value creativity and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your research career.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing research projects and strong knowledge of ethical considerations.
The predicted salary is between 44480 - 44480 £ per year.
UCL’s Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology undertake world-leading research and teaching in mind, behaviour, and language. It brings together researchers in a range of disciplines such as developmental psychology, clinical psychology, psychoanalysis, neuroscience, health, education, communication, medicine, behaviour and development. The Department is a vibrant environment for both study and research. UCL is the top-ranked university in the UK for research in Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience.
The successful candidate will join PI Rachel Hiller’s team (Child Trauma & Recovery research group) to work on a large NIHR-funded research project, using a randomised controlled trial (RCT) design to test a comprehensive mental health assessment package for children and teens in the care system. We are interested in whether this improves outcomes for children in care, by changing and improving decision-making within and between services.
About the role
This job is a part-time role (0.4 FTE) to oversee the day-to-day running of a NIHR-funded randomized controlled trial. The post is 2-days per week (ideally Mon‑Thurs), with an ASAP start date and a duration of 24 months. The project is also supported by a full-time postdoctoral researcher and research assistant, as well as the PI, wider co‑applicant team, and a clinical trials unit. A postdoctoral researcher will also be based at Newcastle University.
Key tasks will include:
- Ensuring the study adheres to all research protocols, including study protocols, data management protocols, and ethical requirements.
- Ensuring all study paperwork is maintained and updated as required.
- Overseeing the coordination of local authority sites, including a ‘community of practice’.
- Overseeing updates to relevant bodies, including local authorities, funder reports, and ethics reports.
- Providing the team with administrative support, as required.
- Working closely with existing trial managers within the team.
The starting salary for this role is fixed at Grade 7, SP 31 (£44,480 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance). Please note: this is the full-time equivalent salary. As this is a part‑time role, this amount will be pro‑rated, and will be less than what's stated.
This role is an open‑ended contract with a duration of 36 months. An acceptable Enhanced DBS check is required to carry out this role. 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. This role is eligible for hybrid working with a minimum of 60% of the contracted time. Certain in‑person meetings may require more in‑office time above the 60% requirement.
This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff.
About you
The candidate should be highly organised and be experienced at managing busy research projects (ideally, trials specifically). They should have strong knowledge of data management, research governance, and ethical considerations of research with children or other potentially vulnerable groups; and strong interpersonal skills for supporting junior researchers, as well as for working alongside the project team and local authority/children’s social care professionals.
Please note: Candidates must be able to start in the role no later than the 1st September 2026 and therefore must have unrestricted right to work in the UK.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits:
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holiday 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
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On‑site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
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; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
Athena Swan Status Statement
Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.
Trial Manager employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
UCL is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of psychology and mental health research. With generous benefits such as 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for hybrid working, UCL prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Joining the Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology means being part of a world-leading institution dedicated to making a meaningful impact on children's lives in the care system.
Contact Details:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trial Manager
✨Utilise University Networks
Let’s make the most of those university psych societies! Engage with fellow students and professors, as they often have insider info about part-time roles in the field of psychology. Plus, don’t forget to tap into career fairs – local organisations are always on the lookout for fresh talent!
✨Get Involved in Research Projects
Dive into research opportunities within your department or nearby psychology labs. Not only will this enhance your CV, but it’s also a fantastic way to meet professionals in the field who might know of part-time positions that aren’t advertised widely.
✨Showcase Your Passion Online
Create a public portfolio or a blog that showcases your thoughts on psychological topics. Sharing your insights online, perhaps on platforms like Medium, can help you get noticed by potential employers who are looking for passionate part-time psychologists.
✨Apply Directly on UK Dementia Research Institute's Website
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We think you need these skills to ace Trial Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a part-time role in psychology, make sure to showcase any relevant experience you’ve got. This could be placements, volunteer work, or even insightful coursework. Show us how your background has prepared you for this specific position at UK Dementia Research Institute!
Demonstrate Your Communication Skills:Communication is key in psychology! Use your CV and cover letter to illustrate how you’ve effectively communicated complex ideas or worked with diverse groups. This could be through presentations, group projects, or any mentoring roles you've held—let us see those skills shine!
Tailor Your Personal Statement:In your cover letter, don’t just tell us why you want this role at UK Dementia Research Institute; dive into your passion for psychology! Mention specific areas of interest or any unique insights you've gained during your studies that relate to what we do. This shows us that you’re not just looking for any part-time job, but that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact.
Keep Your Availability Clear:Since this is a part-time position, it's super important to be transparent about your availability. In your application, include the days and times you're free to work. This helps us understand how well you can fit into our team at UK Dementia Research Institute—and makes scheduling a breeze!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Show Off Your Understanding of Psychological Concepts
When chatting with UK Dementia Research Institute, make sure to highlight your grasp of key psychological theories and frameworks. Be ready to discuss their application in real-world scenarios, perhaps how you've tackled cases during your studies or placements. This is your chance to show them you're not just book-smart but also practical!
✨Be Prepared for Role-Playing or Case Studies
In psychology roles, especially part-time gigs, you might face some role-plays or case study scenarios during the interview. Don't shy away from demonstrating your thought process! Practicing your responses to hypothetical situations can help showcase your analytical skills and empathy, which are crucial in this field.
✨Discuss Your Availability and Flexibility
Since this role is part-time, it’s essential to be upfront about your availability. Highlight any flexibility you have during certain days or hours, as this can be a big plus for UK Dementia Research Institute. Showing that you're adaptable will signal that you’re keen to fit in with their schedule.
✨Prepare Specific Questions About Their Approach
Demonstrating genuine interest in UK Dementia Research Institute will set you apart! Come prepared with questions about their therapy methods, client demographics, or team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if their values align with your own – a win-win situation!
