Research Assistant in Neuroimaging

The Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences seeks an enthusiastic individual who can develop their knowledge of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, ALS (the commonest form of Motor Neuron Disease, MND), and the related disorder frontotemporal dementia (FTD) through engagement with an internationally-leading programme of neuroscience research led by Professor Martin Turner, Professor Kevin Talbot and Associate Professor Alexander Thompson. The post-holder will join a wider vibrant team of more than 30 people in the Oxford MND Centre who are involved in a range of bench science and patient-based research.

 

You will be primarily responsible for organising the collection of neuroimaging data from healthy volunteers and individuals living with ALS, including those participating in a major new multi centre UK drug screening platform - the ‘EXPErimental Route To Success in ALS’ (EXPERTS ALS). EXPERTS-ALS is a randomised, open-label, multi-arm study that will prioritise candidate drugs by their ability to lower blood neurofilament light chain levels in relatively small groups of ALS patients, each taking drug for up to 6 months.

 

Part of EXPERTS-ALS is deeper study of data generated from participants for the development of novel biomarkers. Oxford’s unique neuroimaging theme is focused on magnetoencephalography (MEG) at the Oxford Centre for Human Brain Activity (OHBA) located on the Warneford Hospital site. We will explore MEG as a disease activity marker, scanning participants at baseline and 3 months, and correlating this with wider biochemical markers of neuronal degradation.

 

The post holder will be responsible for data collection in existing neuroimaging studies. Previous research experience with humans is essential. The post requires excellent communication and organisational skills, with the ability to gain people’s trust, and impart enthusiasm and confidence to research participants. Experience working with patients (ideally those with neurodegenerative diseases) is highly desirable.

 

The post offers the opportunity to become proficient in neuroimaging data collection and data management. In addition, you will become experienced in working within the field of neurodegenerative disease, interacting with a range of multidisciplinary scientists. There is also opportunity for basic training in neuroimaging analysis and to support a future application for doctoral study.

 

Please click the 'Apply' button above for the 'Job Description' for further details on the responsibilities and selection criteria, as well as further information about the university and how to apply.

 

 

 

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