Trial Assistant CM)

## Review: Exciting Administrative Opportunity at Southampton Clinical Trials Unit This review aims to provide potential candidates with a clear understanding of the administrative role at the Southampton Clinical Trials Unit (SCTU), highlighting key advantages and considerations for career development.

The Southampton Clinical Trials Unit (SCTU) presents a compelling opportunity for individuals seeking to contribute to the advancement of cancer research. As a UKCRC registered unit established in 2006, SCTU is at the forefront of designing and conducting academically led clinical trials. This role places you within a dynamic team supporting a growing portfolio of multi-centre trials that directly impact routine clinical practice. You will be part of an organisation core-funded by Cancer Research UK and supported by the NHS National Institute for Health Research, based within Southampton University Hospitals NHS Trust.

This position offers a chance to gain valuable experience in a crucial sector, working alongside experienced trial managers, data managers, statisticians, regulatory staff, and administrative support. The core responsibilities revolve around providing high-quality administrative support across a range of essential activities, contributing to the seamless execution of clinical trials.

Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Research: You will be directly involved in the operational support of clinical trials that are designed to influence the future of cancer treatment. This offers a unique insight into the research pipeline and its translation into patient care.
• Skill Development in a Reputable Environment: Working within a UKCRC registered unit, core-funded by Cancer Research UK and NHS NIHR, provides a strong foundation for professional development. You will hone essential administrative, organizational, and communication skills within a highly respected research setting.
• Team-Oriented and Collaborative Culture: The role emphasizes being a team player, fostering an environment where collaboration and shared success are valued. This is an excellent opportunity to learn from and contribute to a multidisciplinary team.
• Contribution to a Meaningful Cause: For those passionate about making a difference, this role offers the profound satisfaction of supporting research that directly benefits cancer patients and contributes to eradicating the disease.
• Organizational Benefits: The employing organization, the University of Southampton, offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive pension scheme, and a commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance, as evidenced by the Faculty of Medicine's Athena SWAN Silver Award.
• Potential for Extension: While initially a two-year fixed-term contract, there is the possibility of an extension, offering a degree of stability and the chance to embed yourself further within the unit.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Required Experience: Candidates are expected to possess suitable office experience, demonstrating a capacity for efficient and organized work.
• Essential Skills: Strong communication skills are paramount, along with the ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment and a genuine aptitude for teamwork.
• AI Use in Applications: The description explicitly welcomes the use of AI tools for proofreading and structuring applications. However, it is crucial that applications clearly reflect your own individual experience and contributions. Shortlisting will be based on demonstrable evidence of your personal input.
• Fixed-Term Contract: The role is offered on a two-year fixed-term contract. While an extension is possible, candidates should be aware of the initial contract duration.
• Office-Based Role: This is a full-time, office-based position located in Southampton.
• Competitive Salary Range: The advertised salary range is £27,319 to £30,378 per annum. Candidates should assess if this aligns with their salary expectations and experience.
• Application Deadline: Please note the closing date for applications is December 10th, 2025.
• Interview Process: Be aware of the interview timeline, with pre-interview calls scheduled for December 16th, 2025, and in-person interviews on January 13th or 15th, 2026.

This administrative support role at SCTU offers a fantastic platform for individuals looking to advance their careers within a significant research institution while contributing to a vital cause. By understanding the advantages and key considerations outlined above, candidates can best position themselves for success in this exciting opportunity.