Internal Applicants Only - Research Associate

Job Purpose

The role is to provide advanced data analysis and neurophysiological modelling (DCM) of MEG data collected using both conventional SQUID MEG and high-density OPM systems. The data will be collected as part of a multi-site collaboration between the University of Nottingham, Cardiff University and Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto. The post is funded by UKRI-STFC to optimise DCM modelling for OPM data, is for 18 months, and will be based at the Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC) under the supervision of Prof. Krish Singh.

In addition, more generally to conduct research within the specialist area and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University, carrying out research leading to the publishing of high-quality research. To pursue excellence in research and to inspire others to do the same.

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Perform analysis of SQUID and OPM MEG data collected at both Nottingham University and Sick Kids hospital Toronto.

Develop new analysis approaches to optimise DCM analyses for OPM data.

Research

• To conduct research within the specialist areas of modelling and analysis of OPM/SQUID MEG data and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University by the production of measurable outputs including bidding for funding, publishing in national academic journals and conferences, and the recruitment and supervision of postgraduate research students.
• To develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research including research funding proposals
• To attend and or present at conferences/seminars at a local and national level as required
• To undertake administrative tasks associated with the research project, including the planning and organisation of the project and the implementation of procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting
• To prepare research ethics and research governance applications as appropriate
• To review and synthesise existing research literature within the field
• To participate in School research activities.
• To build and create networks both internally and externally to the university, to influence decisions, explore future research requirements, and share research ideas for the benefit of research projects

Other

• To engage effectively with industrial, commercial and public sector organisations, professional institutions, other academic institutions etc., regionally and nationally to raise awareness of the School’s profile, to cultivate strategically valuable alliances, and to pursue opportunities for collaboration across a range of activities. These activities are expected to contribute to the School and the enhancement of its regional and national profile.
• To undergo personal and professional development that is appropriate to and which will enhance performance
• To participate in School administration and activities to promote the School and its work to the wider University and the outside world
• Any other duties not included above, but consistent with the role.

General Duties

• Ensure that an understanding of the importance of confidentiality is applied when undertaking all duties
• Abide by University policies on Health and Safety and Equality and Diversity
• Perform other duties occasionally which are not included above, but which will be consistent with the role.

IMPORTANT NOTE TO CANDIDATES: It is the University’s policy to use the person specification as a key tool for short-listing and we only invite candidates to interview who clearly evidence that they meet (or partially meet) each of the essential criteria. During the application process you will be asked to attach a supporting statement. This statement must outline how you meet the criteria below and we recommended formatting this by using each criteria as a sub-heading and providing your relevant experience/evidence below each sub-heading. It is crucial that you save your supporting statement with the vacancy number (eg. 20142BR) in the filename as failure to do so may result in it being omitted from your application.

Essential Criteria

Qualifications and Education
1. Postgraduate degree at PhD level (or nearing completion / submission) in a related subject area or relevant industrial experience

Knowledge, Skills and Experience
2. An established expertise and proven portfolio of research and/or relevant industrial experience within the following research fields:

• Analysis of Magnetoencephalography (MEG),or electroencephalography (EEG), data including source-reconstruction, spectral analysis and time-frequency analysis of induced and evoked effects.
• Neurophysiological modelling using tools such as Dynamic Causal Modelling (DCM)

3. Knowledge of current status of research in specialist field
4. Proven ability to publish in national/international conferences and/or other research outputs
5. Knowledge and understanding of competitive research funding to be able to develop applications to funding bodies

Communication and Team Working
6. Proven ability in effective and persuasive communication
7. Ability to supervise the work of others to focus team efforts and motivate individuals

Other
8. Proven ability to demonstrate creativity, innovation and team-working within work
9. Proven ability to work without close supervision

Desirable Criteria

1. Experience of beamformer source reconstruction and time-frequency analysis of induced and evoked effects
2. Experience of working with MEG data collected from optically-pumped magnetometer (OPM) systems and/or the CTF SQUID MEG system
3. Experience of performing analysis of spectral features using the DCM framework within SPM
4. Evidence of collaborations with industry
5. Proven ability to adapt to the changing requirements of the Higher Education community
6. Evidence of ability to participate in and develop both internal and external networks and utilise them to enhance the research activities of the School.

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Academic - Research

Grade 6