<!--anchor--> <!--anchor--> Post-doctoral Research associate <!--anchor-->

The post-doctoral RA will work with Prof Rubia and her team on an exciting project funded by the NIHR testing a novel non-pharmacological brain stimulation therapy for ADHD approved by the FDA and CE. The therapy is based on the stimulation of the trigeminal nerve (TNS) which has shown to improve ADHD symptoms in a proof of concept trial in the USA. This study will test the novel neurotherapy for ADHD in a larger, multicenter, randomised controlled trial (RCT) in 150 children and adolescents with ADHD at KCL and Southampton University. The post-doc will have the opportunity to acquire or extend his/her experience in fMRI, learn cutting edge stimulation methods, work in innovative clinical research and new therapy development and work in an interdisciplinary team at the Institute of Psychiatry, involving MRI physicists and analysts, cognitive neuroscientists, statisticians and child psychiatrists. The candidate will have a PhD and strong background in neuropsychology, neuroimaging, cognitive neuroscience or related fields and show evidence of working independently, excellent organisation skills, team-work abilities, excellent writing skills, and statistical expertise. It is strongly desirable that the post-doc has prior experience in sMRI/fMRI, and cognitive (developmental) neuroscience. Other criteria are: autonomy through all stages of cognitive brain-imaging experimentation, sound knowledge of experimental design and statistical methods, and proven ability to express ideas and disseminate findings effectively and good writing skills. Experience with RCT and ADHD is strongly desirable. Applicants should be able to work independently as well as co-operate with other members of the research team. 

This post will be offered on an a fixed-term contract for 3 years & 8 months. This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent.

• Take lead on TNS RCT in ADHD children 
• Recruitment of suitable ADHD participants from South London and Maudsley and other London Clinics or ADHD parent support groups. 
• Liaise with local clinical services and schools for recruitment, as well as close and supportive working with families taking part in the study 
• Arrange and manage the MRI scanning of adolescents with ADHD during task-related fMRI. 
• Assist with clinical and cognitive research evaluation of children before, during and after treatment. 
• Responsible for administration of clinical questionnaires, IQ, and psychometric testing online and face to face. 
• Responsible for neuropsychological testing outside of scanner. 
• Responsible for showing parents the administration of the TNS devices. 
• Preparation of clinical, demographic and neuropsychological data for input into the database. 
• Analysis of task-related fMRI imaging data. 
• Write original research publications. 
• Disseminate findings through presentation at conferences, the media, parent support groups, clinics and other outlets 
• Work closely with the trial manager and the other post-doctoral research assistants at KCL and Southampton and supervise them where necessary or suitable. Page 3 of 5 Version 13.05.2021 
• Since the study is funded for a specific period of time, proper planning and meeting milestones is essential. 

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.

Essential criteria

• PhD in psychology, neuroscience, medicine, neurobiology, neuroimaging or related subjects (MSc accepted only if exceptional and skilled in required fields) or near completion. 
• BA or BSc in psychology, neuroscience, neuroimaging, medicine, MRI physics, computing/IT/maths, neurobiology, or related subjects 
• Statistical knowledge 
• Excellent communication skills, oral and written as shown by prior publication as well as excellent interpersonal skills 
• Experience in neuropsychological testing of some form/cognitive neuroscience 
• Prior research in related area (ideally experience of recruitment in RCTs in ADHD or other pediatric patient groups). 
• Experience with data collection, storage and analysis 
• Ability to work independently and under supervision, assessing priorities and managing workload effectively 
• Excellent organization skills, team working skills and ability to prioritise work and meeting deadlines 
• To establish and maintain good channels of communication with other departments within the University, the NHS, and parent support groups 
• Able to work independently and efficiently – autodidactic, enthusiastic, conscientious and organised 
• Motivated, flexible, persistent and proactive 

   Desirable criteria 

• Experience in RCTs
• fMRI analyses (not essential but desirable) 
• Experience in RCTs in pediatric patient groups 
• Working with children 
• Research in ADHD or another pediatric group