Clinical Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Department

The Department of Neuromuscular Diseases is internationally recognised for excellence in both clinical care and translational research. The department brings together clinicians, geneticists, imaging specialists and laboratory scientists to improve understanding of neuromuscular and spinal cord disorders and to accelerate the development of effective therapies.

Research within the department directly informs clinical practice and contributes to improved outcomes for patients with inherited neuropathies, motor neurone disease, Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological conditions. Collaboration, innovation and patient-centred research are at the core of the department’s mission.

About the Opportunity

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Clinical Research Fellow to join Professor Mary Reilly’s research group, following the award of a major four-year grant from Muscular Dystrophy UK. The project, TRANSFORM-CMT (Trial Readiness in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease), focuses on improving trial readiness for inherited neuropathies by refining sensitive and reliable imaging outcome measures.

The post holder will contribute to the optimisation of a quantitative MRI calf muscle fat-fraction protocol, currently regarded as one of the most responsive outcome measures in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Advances in artificial intelligence and MRI acquisition techniques will be used to enhance accuracy, reproducibility and efficiency.

This role provides an outstanding opportunity to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge clinical research while working alongside experts in neurology, imaging physics, bioinformatics and genetics.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the development and validation of AI-assisted MRI fat-fraction outcome measures
  • Recruit, assess and clinically evaluate patients participating in MRI studies at UCL
  • Perform structured neurological assessments and outcome measures in inherited neuropathies
  • Analyse MRI data using advanced AI-based software following appropriate training
  • Coordinate research activity and data collection across six collaborating UK centres
  • Work closely with trial coordinators, data managers, geneticists and clinicians
  • Ensure data quality, governance compliance and accurate reporting across sites
  • Contribute to study documentation, presentations and future publications
  • An Honorary Clinical Contract with UCLH NHS Trust will be required, subject to a DBS check, in line with UK safeguarding requirements

Training and Development

The successful candidate will receive structured training in:

  • Clinical assessment of inherited neuropathies
  • Clinical outcome measures used in neuromuscular trials
  • MRI fat-fraction analysis and interpretation
  • Genetic and phenotypic correlation in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

Research governance and Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/good-clinical-practice-for-clinical-trials

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

  • GMC registration with a licence to practise in the UK
  • Completion of Core / Internal Medicine Training (CMT/IMT)

MRCP qualification

  • Demonstrable experience in clinical neurology
  • Understanding of clinical research methodology
  • Evidence of research activity conducted under supervision
  • Excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a multidisciplinary team

Desirable Criteria

  • Previous experience in neuromuscular or inherited neurological disorders
  • Experience with imaging-based outcome measures
  • Interest in academic neurology or future doctoral research

Contract and Funding

  • Start date: 01 August 2026
  • Initially funded for one year, with a strong expectation of extension for up to three years
  • Funded by Muscular Dystrophy UK

Salary and Benefits

The post is offered on the CL / RDPS / StR salary scale, dependent on NHS contract and training stage, with a salary range of:

  • £51,140 – £78,670 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance.

UCL offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • 41 days’ annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days)
  • Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
  • Cycle to Work and season ticket loan schemes
  • Immigration loan and visa support
  • On-site nursery, gym and wellbeing services
  • Enhanced family leave policies
  • Employee assistance and staff support programmes

Visa Sponsorship

This role meets UK Visas and Immigration requirements for Skilled Worker sponsorship and Global Talent visas, and applications from international candidates are welcomed

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

UCL is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment where diversity is valued. The Institute actively promotes equality of opportunity and holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its commitment to advancing gender equality.

Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals currently under-represented within the academic and clinical workforce.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit:

  • A current CV
  • An online application form
  • A supporting statement or cover letter clearly addressing the essential and desirable criteria

Please do not upload additional documents, as these will not be reviewed.