The Research Assistant/Therapist will be part of a research team undertaking an international study "A Multi-Arm, Randomized Trial of Cognitive Rehabilitation and Physical Exercise in Persons with Progressive Multiple Sclerosis". You will be working within the School of Health Professions, Faculty of Health and Human Science, University of Plymouth. You will be based in Plymouth and be part of a multi-site international trial involving six countries and 11 sites.
Under the guidance of Prof Jennifer Freeman at the University of Plymouth you will responsible for the delivery of interventions, according to standard operating procedures, as part of the COGEx trial (Cognitive Rehabilitation and Exercise). You will also provide research and administrative support to the academic colleagues responsible for the project.
The study is a four arm randomised controlled trial. People with progressive Multiple Sclerosis who have cognitive problems (such as delayed processing speed) will be randomly assigned to one of four groups; all will receive twice weekly sessions for 12 weeks, involving cognitive and exercise rehabilitation. You will be responsible for the delivery of the treatment arms in this clinical trial, which will be undertaken according to a protocol. Training in the provision of the treatments will be provided.
You should be a qualified therapist (e.g. physiotherapist, occupational therapist) registered with the HCPC, or a qualified Sports Scientist (registered as a professional member of BASE).
You should be able to demonstrate:
* excellent communication and organisational skills; * the ability to work as part of a team* effective interpersonal skills, including the ability to be sensitive and diplomatic towards others * the ability to prioritise and maintain judgement under pressure
Knowledge and experience in the rehabilitation of neurological conditions (preferably Multiple Sclerosis) and in implementing either physical or cognitive rehabilitation is desirable. Please demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.
This vacancy will involve working with vulnerable adults and any appointment will be subject to receipt of clearance for the Disclosure and Barring Service.
This is a full-time post working 37 hours per week on a fixed-term basis for a period of 24 months due to funding.
Contact for informal discussion: Prof Jenny Freeman, Professor of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, jenny.freeman@plymouth.ac.uk; 01752 588835.
Interviews are expected to take place on Tuesday 18th September 2018.
The University of Plymouth is committed to equality of opportunity, promoting a diverse and inclusive culture, demonstrated through our commitment to the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and as a Stonewall diversity champion. All applications will be judged solely on merit, however, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently under-represented in the workforce, for example black and minority ethnic groups.
University of Plymouth holds a TEF (Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework) Silver by the Office for Students.
University of Plymouth has been recognised by Bloomberg as one of the 50 best UK employers for 2016.
Job Description