Clinical Research Fellow

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world‑class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits which include a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits and join us to become part of something special.

Polarisation‑sensitive OCT as an early predictor of spontaneous pre‑term birth

This is an exciting opportunity to work on a project to develop and test a new device for the assessment of the collagen content and structure of the human cervix to improve prediction of spontaneous premature birth. You will participate in pilot studies to determine its potential clinical utility. The study is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Council (EPSRC), UK.

• Develop and refine clinical experimental protocols and assist in the development of suitable experimental device configurations for the clinical trial phase of the project.
• Identify, recruit, and study cohorts of women by conducting measurement experiments using the new OCT device to assess cervical tissue.
• Coordinate management of all data acquired, working with principal investigators and other team members.
• Supervise and support undergraduate and postgraduate students as appropriate.
• Prepare papers for journals/presentations at local/regional/national/international meetings to disseminate research findings.
• Write supporting documents for the work of the research group, e.g. reports and grant applications.
• Carry out administrative roles such as acting as secretary to research group meetings.

• Work within a clinical sphere under the supervision of the Principal Investigators. Participate in mandatory study days.
• Identify self‑training needs to the project site lead.
• Participate in training courses as required by project site lead.
• Pursue a suitable programme of academic development leading to postgraduate certification.

• Continuously monitor and review results, planning daily to adapt to new developments.
• As a staff member, you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, integrating the University sustainability strategy into your work activities whenever possible.
• You will make a full and active contribution to the principles of the “Sheffield Academic”. These include achieving excellence in applied teaching and research, and scholarly pursuits that genuinely impact the subject area and the University’s overall achievements.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

• Full registration with the General Medical Council
• Substantial experience in clinical practice post qualification, with at least 2 years’ experience in Obstetrics and Gynaecology
• Experience at ST/SpR training stage
• MRCOG
• Basic understanding of research methods and statistics
• Good IT skills with working knowledge of spreadsheets and database application to research
• Good organisational skills
• Experience of presenting own work at national/international conferences
• Knowledge of research governance and ethical frameworks and regulations
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to assess and organise resources, and plan and progress work activities

• Knowledge of research governance and ethical frameworks and regulations
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to assess and organise resources, and plan and progress…