Clinical Research Fellow in Motor Neurone Disease (2 posts)

John Radcliffe Hospital
Headington

The Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences seeks two enthusiastic Clinical Research Fellows for the opportunity to develop their expertise in Motor Neurone Disease (MND, also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, ALS, and the related disorder frontotemporal dementia, FTD) through their engagement with an established internationally-leading programme of neuroscience research led by Professor Kevin Talbot and Professor Martin Turner.

The posts would be particularly suitable for those wishing to undertake a DPhil in neurodegeneration research, and the postholders will receive training in all aspects of MND patient assessment and care.

The posts will function within an established program for the multimodal, longitudinal study of patients with MND, the Oxford Study for Biomarkers in MND (‘BioMOx’). This involves the prospective collection of clinical data (including cognitive assessment), genetic, neurochemical, MRI, MEG, and basic oculomotor profiles of those suspected to have MND, those at genetic risk of MND, those with conditions that mimic MND, and healthy controls. Oxford is also a centre within The Genetic Frontotemporal Dementia Initiative (GENFI);

You will develop an individual project suited to their particular skills and interests, and the priorities of the research group. The postholders may choose to focus on neurochemical (proteomics), or neuroimaging analysis (pharmacodynamic studies using MRI and MEG), or in vivo or in vitro models of disease using mice and iPSC-derived human motor neurons, with the aim of furthering understanding of the basic pathogenesis of MND.

You will require a medical degree and full GMC registration, sufficient specialist knowledge in neurology to work with MND patients and carers, competence and confidence with venesection and lumbar puncture as well as excellent organisational and concise communication skills.

There are two positions available for this post. The post is full-time for a fixed-term of up to 3 years, 2 year contracts will be considered if preferred.

Only applications received before 12.00 midday on 15 June 2016 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.

Closing Date: 15 June 2016 12:00