ABOUT US

The Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences is a world-leading group that brings together expertise across the clinical and basic science spectrum of the physiology and pathology of human movement and movement disorders.
The Department is in a unique position of pursuing research in basic neuroscience that is of direct translational benefit to neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, stroke, motor neurone disease, peripheral nerve disorders and spinal cord injury. Our Research Groups use a powerful combination of modern non-invasive research technology, theoretical and computational approaches and a variety of cellular, animal and human models to explore how the brain controls normal movement, and how disease leads to disordered control of movement.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Research Assistant to support a translational neuroscience project within the Ward Lab, led by Dr Laura Salisbury (PI) and Professor Nick Ward (Co-I). This post has been created to support data collection and analysis for a novel, patented medical device - PowerBead - as part of an NIHR i4i FAST Award titled “Evaluating reticulospinal plasticity in neural circuits from a novel wearable treatment (‘PowerBead’) as a potential method for regaining finger extension post-stroke.” You will play a key role in the implementation of study protocols, data collection, and data analysis within a laboratory setting.
You will work closely with collaborators at Newcastle University (Professor Stuart Baker) and the University of Central Lancashire (Dr Rachel Stockley), as well as with a network of healthcare providers and charities across the UK. Occasional travel across the UK is expected.
This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in translational research, contribute to the optimisation of an innovative rehabilitation device for home use, and support the planning of a future pilot clinical trial. It is particularly suited to individuals with practical experience working with stroke populations and conducting research protocols in a clinical or neuroscience setting.
The role is available immediately and funded by a grant awarded to Dr Laura Salisbury and Professor Nick Ward until 31 December 2025 in the first instance.
The post is offered part-time at 21.9 hours per week (0.60 Full Time Equivalent).
If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online, or have any queries regarding the application process, please contact the Institute of Neurology HR Team (ion.hradmin@ucl.ac.uk).
Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Professor Nick Ward (n.ward@ucl.ac.uk).
A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below. To apply, please upload a current CV, complete the online application form, and use the supporting statement section or upload a cover letter to outline how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for the role. Please do not upload any additional attachments as these will not be considered by the selection panel.

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer great benefits, some of which are below:

• 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
• Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• Immigration loan
• On-site nursery
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted medical insuranc