STRATIFY Lupus Clinical Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
Research Environment
The fellow will join the translational autoimmune research group led by Leonard Ehrenstein, working closely with Muhammad Shipa and multidisciplinary collaborators. The group specialises in autoimmune rheumatic disease, translating discoveries in immune biology into improved diagnostics and treatments.
Clinical research activity is closely integrated with University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, a leading centre for systemic lupus care and research. This partnership provides strong infrastructure for clinical trials, patient recruitment, and laboratory collaboration.
Project Focus — STRATIFY-LUPUS Trial
The fellowship centres on a first-of-its-kind biomarker enrichment trial in systemic lupus erythematosus, funded by Arthritis Research UK and the National Institute for Health and Care Research. The study investigates whether adding belimumab following rituximab improves outcomes in biomarker-positive patients.
The fellow will:
- Recruit and clinically assess eligible patients
- Coordinate with local hospitals to enhance referrals
- Work alongside research nurses and trial coordinators
- Integrate clinical findings with laboratory outputs
- Gain exposure to trial governance and patient safety processes
You will also have opportunities for laboratory training, data generation for publications, and potential preparation toward a future PhD or academic fellowship. Funding is available for conference participation.
Contract Structure
- One-year fixed-term appointment (from October 2026)
- Eligible for Out of Programme Research (OOPR)
- Sponsorship available for eligible candidates
- Potential to combine with a 50% educational or funded role
Candidate Profile
This fellowship suits a rheumatology trainee seeking translational research exposure. Essential criteria include:
- Medical qualification (MBBS or equivalent)
- GMC registration
- Membership of the Royal College of Physicians
- Completion of general professional training
- Practical rheumatology experience including SLE care
Prior clinical trials or laboratory experience is welcome but not required — structured mentorship is built into the role.
Benefits Snapshot
The position includes a strong employment package:
- 41 days total leave entitlement
- Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
- Optional additional leave purchase
- Travel and cycle support schemes
- Immigration and relocation assistance
- On-site childcare and gym facilities
- Enhanced family leave provisions
- Employee wellbeing support
The department promotes inclusive working practices and holds recognition through the Athena SWAN framework for advancing gender equality.
Relevant UK Government Resources
Applicants — particularly those navigating UK clinical training or visas — may find these official resources helpful:
- Skilled Worker visa guidance
- UK medical registration overview
- NHS employment rights
- Workplace pensions
- Equality protections at work
