Job overview

This is an exciting opportunity 12 month fixed-term contract for a clinician at higher speciality training level ST4-6 or equivalent, who is seeking to join a dynamic and expanding research team at Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust. The post is designed for a motivated individual with a strong interest in psychiatry, dementia, and translational neuroscience, offering a unique blend of clinical and academic experience.

The post holder will support the delivery and development of high‑quality clinical research in mental illness and dementia. This includes involvement in a diverse portfolio of innovative studies, such as blood biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease, psychosis research, circadian rhythm studies, and ultra‑low‑field MRI. Responsibilities will include participant recruitment, study coordination, and data collection, while actively contributing to the growth and impact of the research portfolio.

You will work closely with senior clinicians, researchers, and academic partners to deliver research that has direct relevance to patient care. The role provides excellent opportunities for professional development, including involvement in protocol development, ethics submissions, and opportunities for authorship on publications. You will also gain practical experience in Good Clinical Practice (GCP), research governance, and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Main duties of the job

The post holder will be responsible for supporting the delivery of clinical research across a range of studies in mental illness and dementia. Key responsibilities include participant recruitment, conducting psychiatric and cognitive assessments, and ensuring adherence to study protocols and ethical standards.

This post is ideally suited to a clinician who is seeking to develop a career in academic psychiatry or neurology, The post holder will be supported by experienced clinical and academic supervisors and will have access to mentorship, continuing professional development, and engagement with postgraduate medical education (PGME).

You will apply clinical judgement to assess eligibility, obtain informed consent, and monitor participants for adverse events. The role involves working across inpatient, outpatient, and community settings, requiring adaptability and strong communication skills. You will liaise with multidisciplinary teams including psychiatrists, neurologists, MRI specialists, and research staff to coordinate study delivery.

Additional duties include contributing to the development of new research projects, supporting ethics applications, and maintaining accurate documentation in line with GCP and sponsor requirements. You may also provide mentorship and guidance to trainees and assist with training activities to build research capacity within the Trust.

Working for our organisation

We are Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust providing vital mental health, learning disability, and specialist services to a population of 1.8 million people across Kent and Medway.

Join our extensive network of medical professionals and contribute to making a positive impact. We offer exceptional professional development opportunities, allowing you to develop your skills while enjoying the high quality of life in the picturesque Garden of England.

Collaborate with the prestigious Kent and Medway Medical School, be at the forefront of integrated care, and prioritise individual well-being. If you're passionate about research, join our internationally recognised team and contribute to shaping the future of healthcare.

You will join a diverse and inclusive team committed to delivering outstanding care through collaboration and continuous learning.