📊 Job Summary Table of Clinical Trials

Job Description Summary

An exceptional opportunity for an experienced researcher to provide leadership in trial delivery at York Trials Unit, one of the UK’s leading centers for designing and conducting randomized controlled trials in healthcare settings.

Responsibilities

• Lead in developing and implementing innovative approaches to trial delivery, particularly for complex interventions such as behavioral interventions or surgery and devices
• Join the multi-disciplinary Operations Management Group to provide strategic direction in trial methodology
• Develop and share best practices across the research team, building capacity and expertise in trial delivery
• Contribute to funding applications with particular focus on feasibility and delivery aspects
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers in trial design and implementation
• Ensure trials comply with UK clinical trials regulations and quality assurance standards
• Design and implement efficient trial processes through standard operating procedures
• Foster collaboration with clinical partners, stakeholders, and patient representatives
• Lead on incorporating patient and public involvement in research design and delivery
• Advance inclusive approaches in clinical trial research
• Drive continuous improvement in trial delivery methodologies and processes

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary range of £57,422 – £66,537 per year
• Flexible working patterns to support work-life balance
• Family-friendly initiatives and support systems
• Hybrid working arrangement with some remote work options available
• Supportive departmental culture focused on helping staff flourish
• Opportunity to work in a leading UK research center
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities
• Collaborative research environment with multidisciplinary expertise
• Chance to contribute to meaningful health research with real-world impact
• Beautiful campus location in historic York

Company Overview

The University of York is a prestigious research-intensive institution consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK. The Department of Health Sciences is recognized internationally for its excellence in research and teaching, with particular strengths in clinical trials and health services research. York Trials Unit is a leading UK center specializing in the design, delivery, analysis, and reporting of multi-center randomized controlled trials that inform healthcare practice and policy.

Research Environment at York Trials Unit

York Trials Unit offers a vibrant research environment where innovation and methodological rigor are highly valued. The unit specializes in trials across diverse healthcare settings, working closely with clinicians, patients, and other stakeholders to ensure research is relevant and impactful. The multidisciplinary team includes statisticians, health economists, trial managers, and research methodologists who collaborate to deliver high-quality evidence that shapes healthcare decisions nationally and internationally.

Career Growth Opportunities

This senior position offers excellent opportunities for professional advancement within academic health research. The successful candidate will:

• Build their professional profile through leading high-impact clinical trials
• Develop advanced expertise in trial methodology and innovation
• Have opportunities to publish in high-impact journals and present at international conferences
• Build networks with leading researchers and healthcare organizations
• Gain experience in securing competitive research funding
• Develop leadership skills through mentoring junior researchers
• Have pathways to progress to more senior academic positions

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

The Department of Health Sciences at York embraces equality, diversity, and inclusion as core values, embodied in their commitment to the Athena SWAN Charter. The department actively fosters a supportive culture that helps all staff and students contribute fully, flourish, and excel. The York Trials Unit is committed to inclusive research practices that ensure clinical trials benefit diverse populations and address health inequalities.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of York strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where everyone can be themselves. Applications from people who identify as Black, Asian, or from a Minority Ethnic background are particularly encouraged, as these groups are currently underrepresented at the University. The institution also encourages applications from women for senior roles and offers family-friendly, flexible working arrangements to support inclusivity.

Remote Work Policy

The University of York recognizes the importance of flexible working arrangements. This position offers a hybrid working model with options for some remote working, combined with on-campus presence. The specific balance between remote and on-site work can be discussed and arranged to suit both the successful candidate’s needs and the requirements of the role. The university provides appropriate support and resources for remote working when applicable.

Application Process

1. Review the full job description available for download on the university’s job portal
2. Prepare your CV highlighting your experience in trial design and delivery
3. Submit a cover letter demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria
4. Complete the online application form on the University of York jobs website
5. If shortlisted, attend an interview (date to be confirmed)

Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted by May 7, 2025.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the University of York’s job portal at https://jobs.york.ac.uk/vacancy/senior-research-fellow-assistant-director-york-trials-unit-582415.html. For informal enquiries, please contact Dr. Jude Watson at jude.watson@york.ac.uk or Professor Catherine Hewitt at catherine.hewitt@york.ac.uk.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

To be successful in this Clinical Trials Research Fellow position, candidates must demonstrate:

• PhD or an MSc in an area relevant to health and care research plus equivalent experience in the field of trials
• Expert knowledge in trial design and delivery for complex interventions, including efficient approaches
• Comprehensive understanding of the UK funding landscape for healthcare research
• Expert knowledge of UK clinical trials regulations, standard operating procedures, and quality assurance
• Significant track record of delivering trials of complex interventions in health/social care or public health
• Experience in incorporating patient and public involvement in research design and implementation
• Demonstrated ability to develop or improve operating procedures across multiple trials
• Proven success in attracting and obtaining significant external research funding
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

This Senior Research Fellow position represents an exceptional opportunity for an experienced researcher to make a significant contribution to healthcare research while advancing their career in a supportive and prestigious academic environment. Join the York Trials Unit and be part of shaping the future of clinical trials methodology and delivery in the UK.

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