Research Assistant/Associate in Neurotechnology/Neuroscience/Regulatory Science

Opportunity Alert: Shape the Future of Neurotechnology Regulation at Newcastle University

Newcastle University presents a compelling opportunity for motivated individuals interested in the intersection of cutting-edge neurotechnologies and regulatory science. This fixed-term position, within the prestigious UK National Consortium for Neurotechnology Regulation project, offers a unique chance to contribute significantly to the evolving landscape of neurotechnology policy.

This role is ideal for candidates who are passionate about understanding and influencing how novel technologies impacting the brain are regulated. Whether you are an early-career researcher seeking to gain invaluable experience in policy and regulatory affairs, or a more established professional looking to apply your expertise in a high-impact project, this position offers substantial career development potential.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Direct Impact on Emerging Technologies: You will play a pivotal role in enhancing stakeholder understanding of current UK neurotechnology regulations and actively informing potential reforms. This is a chance to be at the forefront of shaping the ethical and practical implementation of groundbreaking technologies.
• Collaborative Environment: The role emphasizes close collaboration with key regulatory bodies, including a secondment to the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency). This provides unparalleled insight into the workings of national regulatory processes and fosters invaluable professional connections.
• Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: You will engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, from industry and academia to clinical practice, charities, and individuals with lived experience. This broad exposure will hone your communication and consensus-building skills.
• Research and Dissemination Focus: The position involves conducting comprehensive reviews, drafting new guidance, and developing a robust dissemination strategy for project outputs. This will allow you to hone your research, writing, and communication skills, with opportunities for publication.
• Generous Benefits Package: Newcastle University is renowned for its excellent employee benefits, including a competitive salary, a generous holiday allowance with the option to purchase more, strong pension schemes, and comprehensive health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Career Development Support: The University is committed to supporting research colleagues' career progression, with established research role profiles and opportunities to contribute to grant applications and develop your own research objectives.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Fixed-Term Contract: This is a fixed-term position for a period of 20 months. While offering a focused and intensive experience, candidates should consider their long-term career aspirations and how this role fits within their broader professional trajectory.
• Salary Range: The position offers competitive salaries, with distinct bands for Research Assistant (£33,002 to £34,610 per annum) and Research Associate (£35,608 to £37,694 per annum), depending on qualifications and experience.
• Essential Criteria: Successful applications will require a strong focus on the essential criteria outlined in the job description, particularly regarding your ability to work collaboratively, your analytical skills, and your experience in research and communication.
• Desirable Backgrounds: While not strictly essential, a background in academic/industry neurotechnology research, regulatory science of medical devices, or policy-making related to medical devices will be highly advantageous.
• Academic Qualifications: For appointment at the Research Associate level, a PhD in a relevant area is required. For the Research Assistant level, an Honours degree in a relevant subject or equivalent experience is expected.

This role offers a remarkable opportunity to contribute to a critical and rapidly evolving field. If you are a dedicated and analytical individual with a keen interest in regulatory science and neurotechnologies, we encourage you to explore this exciting prospect at Newcastle University.