Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Limit of Tenure applies, 2 years fixed Term

The Managers of the Autism Research Trust Fund invite applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Psychiatry for 24 months, based in the Autism Research Centre (ARC). This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career researcher to develop an independent research project within a world-leading academic environment.

The successful candidate will undertake high-quality research in autism, with the flexibility to shape their own project within the department’s broad areas of expertise. Research topics may include, but are not limited to any of the 12 programs in the ARC: perception and cognition, screening and diagnosis, neuroscience, education, genetics, mental health, environment, physical health, endocrinology, employment, epidemiology and the criminal justice system.

The ARC is a world-class centre that conducts basic research into the causes of autism as well as applied research related to interventions and support for autistic people and their families. Researchers are highly multidisciplinary based at Douglas House in Cambridge with approximately 50 staff and students working both in person and virtually across approximately 50 projects. The ARC is explicit about its values, which include a commitment to community engagement on all projects. See www.autismresearchcentre.com. We use state-of-the-art technology and methodologies in these investigations, including functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), whole genome sequencing, genome wide association studies, epidemiology, experimental psychology, psychometrics, gaze-tracking, and obstetrics.

The role will involve designing and conducting research studies, data analysis, publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals, and contributing to the wider research environment of the ARC and the department. The post-holder will also have opportunities to engage in teaching, mentoring, and public and community engagement activities. A modest project consumable/equipment and travel budget of £5,000 per year will be available.

The post holder will work with Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, Dr Carrie Allison and senior researchers at the ARC and be encouraged to develop funding applications for future independent research (e.g. from the British Academy, MRC, NIHR, or Wellcome). Candidates should hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in a relevant field such as psychology, psychiatry, and allied disciplines. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate: 

• An excellent publication record (relative to career stage)
• Experience designing and conducting research studies
• Strong quantitative research skills (e.g., in statistical analysis, perhaps as applied to neuroimaging, epidemiology, or other relevant fields)
• Strong qualitative research skills if relevant to their field of research
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team
• Excellent communication and organisational skills

Previous experience working with autistic people is desirable. We particularly welcome applications from candidates with lived experience of autism or those with a strong commitment to neurodiversity research.

Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr Carrie Allison (cla29@cam.ac.uk). For questions related to application process or visa applications related to this role, please contact hradminpsychiatry@medschl.cam.ac.uk.

The closing date is 30^th April 2025, with interviews to be confirmed shortly after this.  

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter, CV and include details of your referee                    

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