Research Associate

Position Details

Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906

Grade: 6

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to December 2027

Closing date: 28th October 2025

Background

Applications are invited for a full-time Research Associate position to join Professor Lisa Hill's team within the Department of Biomedical Sciences, working across two major international programmes: mTBI-Predict and UK Brain Blast . Together, these projects aim to transform how mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI, or concussion) is understood, diagnosed, and managed. This is a 1-year post initially, with further funding in place to extend the appointment for up to two additional years, subject to the candidate meeting key performance indicators within the first year.

The overarching goal is to identify accurate, reproducible biomarkers that can predict which patients are most likely to experience long-term difficulties following mTBI, including persistent headaches, memory or concentration problems, depression, PTSD, dizziness, and challenges returning to work. To achieve this, the programmes integrate harmonised clinical assessments with advanced approaches such as brain imaging, EEG, cerebral physiology, visual and vestibular testing, and biofluid analysis.

The biofluids workstream, led by Professor Hill, focuses on the collection and analysis of blood and saliva to detect molecular signatures of proteins, hormones, metabolites, and miRNAs that may provide early indicators of poor recovery. This is a highly collaborative environment, bringing together scientists and clinicians across multiple disciplines, and offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge translational research with direct clinical impact for both civilian and military populations.

The Research Associate will be responsible for collecting, processing and analysing biological samples (e.g., blood, saliva) and using a range of assays (e.g., ELISA, RT-PCR) to measure proteins, miRNAs, hormones, and metabolites, as well as contributing to data collection and analysis. The post holder will work as part of an integrated, multi-disciplinary team of researchers and clinicians to deliver the objectives of this workstream.

Role Summary

The role will involve liaising with military and civilian personnel and care providers, sample collection, analysis and data collection using a range of biological assays to assess the impact of brain injury. The research Associate will be part of an integrative and multi-disciplinary team of researchers and clinicians working collaboratively to deliver this workstream.

Main Duties

• Assist in the collection and storage of samples and data; liaising with military ranges, human Biomaterials Resource Centre and The Birmingham NIHR/Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility (CRF)
• Analyse and manage collected biological samples as directed – this may involve collection of samples from participants based outside of the primary working location; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews and data upload.
• Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research
• Participate in research team meetings
• The post holder may be required to travel to partner sites or clinical settings to assist with the collection of samples and data
• To present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• To provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Participate and contribute to public engagement events
• Analyse research data as directed
• Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification

• A BSc or MSc Degree in the area of Biomedical Sciences or Neuroscience with a minimum of 2:1 classification degree (obtained or expected to have by July 2026)
• Must be willing to embark on a PhD as part of the role
• Understanding of research and evidence of significant involvement/experience with human concussion studies and working within a multidisciplinary team and within military medical research
• Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques. That is, experience with ELISA, RT-PCR and handling biological samples.
• GCP certified
• Significant experience with sample tracking systems
• Have the flexibility to travel to and collect samples from collaborating sites as needed
• Strong organisation and time-management skills
• Cooperative nature and strong teamwork skills, with a willingness to work as part of a large multi-disciplinary team
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to public engagement activities
• Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques
• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively
• Ability to access and organise resources successfully
  Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

To apply, please upload a cover letter and CV.

We will be interviewing shortlisted candidates in person only.

Informal enquiries to Abbie Riley, email:

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website .