Clinical Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Introduction

The School of Life & Medical Sciences is seeking a motivated Clinical Research Fellow to join the team running the OCTOPUS trial—a multi-arm, multi-stage (MAMS) platform designed to accelerate the discovery of treatments for progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS). PMS remains a significant unmet clinical need, and this platform has been developed alongside the MS Society’s Expert Consortium, which brings together clinicians, trial methodologists, statisticians, laboratory scientists, allied health professionals, and people living with MS.

OCTOPUS aims to streamline the testing of both repurposed and novel therapies that target neuroprotection and remyelination, using a robust national infrastructure for recruitment, assessment, and data-driven decision making.

The Role

In this fellowship, you will collaborate directly with the OCTOPUS Principal Investigator, Professor Chataway, and work closely with the UCL MRC Clinical Trials Unit. Your responsibilities will span both clinical and organisational aspects of this major UK-wide research study.

Key duties include:

• Supporting and delivering national recruitment activities.
• Screening participants who have expressed interest through the online OCTOPUS portal.
• Recruiting and consenting eligible patients at UCLH and other designated sites.
• Conducting clinical assessments and ensuring accurate documentation.
• Managing and coordinating blood sample collection, processing, and analysis.
• Working with multidisciplinary colleagues on data gathering, interpretation, and reporting.
• Contributing to patient engagement and public outreach activities that strengthen community involvement in the trial.
• An Honorary Clinical Contract will be arranged with UCLH (and any additional NHS Trusts where duties arise). A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required.
• The position begins in January 2026, funded by the UK MS Society for up to three years (or until 31 December 2028). Applicants seeking a shorter tenure (minimum one year) or a later start date will also be considered.

About You

To succeed in this post, you will bring:

• A recognised medical degree (MD, MBChB, or equivalent).
• GMC registration with a licence to practise, or clear eligibility for full GMC registration.
• MRCP (UK) or an equivalent level of postgraduate clinical training.
• Foundational knowledge of multiple sclerosis, including diagnosis, disease course, and treatment approaches.
• Ability to work efficiently within a multidisciplinary, collaborative research environment.
• Strong academic writing and presentation skills sufficient to contribute to publications, abstracts, and future funding applications.
• This post is eligible for a Skilled Worker Visa or a Global Talent Visa, and applications are welcomed from international clinicians.

Salary and Benefits

The post is offered on the CL, RDPS, or StR clinical pay scales, depending on training stage and NHS contractual arrangements. Salary: £51,140–£78,670, including London Allowance.

UCL also offers an excellent benefits package:

• 41 days of annual leave (27 days + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days).
• Ability to purchase up to 5 additional annual leave days.
• Defined benefit CARE pension scheme.
• Season ticket loan and Cycle to Work scheme.
• Immigration financial support.
• Access to on-site nursery and gym facilities.
• Enhanced family leave (maternity, paternity, adoption).
• Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support.
• Discounted private medical insurance.
• Flexible, part-time, and job-share arrangements may be considered.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The Institute is committed to maintaining an environment where all individuals feel valued and able to contribute fully. More than 12% of staff are actively involved in EDI initiatives, and the Institute holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, demonstrating real progress in gender equality.

UCL aims to reflect the full diversity of London and the global community. We particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in higher education, including candidates from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities; disabled applicants; LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse people; and, at senior grades, women.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit:

• A current CV
• The online application form
• A supporting statement or cover letter addressing the essential and desirable criteria
• No additional documents should be uploaded.