Clinical Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Overview of the Project

Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PMS) remains a critical unmet need within MS therapeutics. The Optimal Clinical Trials Platform for Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (OCTOPUS) is an advanced multi-arm, multi-stage (MAMS) adaptive trial designed to accelerate the discovery of effective therapies—whether re-purposed or novel—targeting neuroprotection and remyelination.

The platform has been developed in collaboration with an Expert Consortium convened by the MS Society, comprising clinicians, statisticians, researchers, healthcare professionals and individuals living with MS. The team has jointly shaped the trial methodology, treatment selection process, outcome measures and patient engagement structures.

Role Summary

As a Clinical Research Fellow, you will be central to the operational delivery of OCTOPUS. Working closely with Professor Chataway and the UCL MRC Clinical Trials Unit, you will support clinical recruitment, patient assessment, data management and public-facing engagement to ensure seamless trial execution across the UK.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical & Research Activities

• Support the national recruitment strategy and assist in screening individuals registered via the OCTOPUS online expression-of-interest system.
• Recruit, consent and assess participants at UCLH and partner sites.
• Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team on data collection, verification, processing and interpretation.
• Coordinate blood sampling, laboratory logistics and related analyses.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, abstracts and grant applications.

Governance & Compliance

• Obtain and maintain an Honorary Clinical Contract with UCLH or other relevant NHS Trusts (enhanced DBS check required).
• Adhere to UK clinical research governance standards, including Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
• Engage with patient and public involvement (PPI) groups to promote inclusive research participation.

Candidate Profile

Essential qualifications and experience:

• Medical degree (MD, MBChB or equivalent).
• Full GMC registration with licence to practise, or eligibility to obtain it.
• MRCP(UK) or equivalent qualification.
• Working knowledge of Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, management and treatment pathways.
• Strong teamwork, communication and organisational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to produce academic writing, presentations and research outputs.
• This post is suitable for applicants requiring a Skilled Worker visa or Global Talent Visa, in line with UKVI rules.

Salary & Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary between £51,140 and £78,670, depending on training stage and NHS contract alignment. UCL also provides a comprehensive benefits package including:

• 41 days of leave (27 days annual leave + bank holidays + closure days)
• Optional purchase of 5 additional annual leave days
• Defined benefit CARE pension
• Cycle-to-work and season-ticket loan schemes
• Immigration support and loan options
• On-site nursery and gym
• Enhanced parental leave
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounted medical insurance
• Flexible, part-time and job-share applications will be considered.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

UCL is committed to fostering a fair, collaborative and inclusive community. The Institute is proud to hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award and continues to take action to support underrepresented groups. We actively welcome applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, including:

• Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities
• Disabled applicants
• LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse candidates
• Women applying for senior roles

How to Apply

Please submit the following via the online application portal:

• Current CV
• Completed application form
• Supporting statement or cover letter detailing how you meet the essential and desirable criteria
• Additional attachments beyond the above cannot be considered.