Work for us

Job overview

An excellent opportunity has emerged within Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust (BSMHFT) for the position of Associate Director of Research and Development. Members of all professions with the relevant experience and qualifications are welcome to apply.

Research is a significant part of core business at BSMHFT. Currently research active portfolios exist in Mood Disorders, Addictions, Perinatal Mental Health, Neuropsychiatry, and Dementia. The Research and Development Department has a strong record of successful National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) grant funding and strong partnerships with academic institutions including the University of Birmingham and within it the Birmingham Institute of Mental health; Aston University and other academic institutions. The collaborations include for example joint clinical/academic posts,

There are significant financial gains to be made in research. This senior leadership appointment is crucial. The time commitment is two PA’s (or equivalent) and we are looking for a qualified clinician with both experience of working at a Director Level and a research track record including grant funding and publications in Mental Health and related areas.

The post is for a fixed term of 3 years with extension to 4 years by mutual consent.

The post attracts a responsibility payment based on the equivalent of 2 Programmed Activities (based on % of basic pay, pensionable and enhancements/annual threshold increases will not apply)

A job share can be considered; please use the supporting information section of the application form to outline this and to demonstrate how the share would work in practical terms.

In addition to the application form, a formal assessment will be undertaken which includes the following:

• Discussion of 2 page CV which covers Research Grants, Publications and research impacts
• Stakeholder Presentation Panel
• Panel Interview - interview date Friday 30th April 2021

For further information or an informal discussion with regard to the post please contact:

Professor Alex Copello, Associate Director of Research and Development in the first instance on 07985 882870 or alex.copello1@nhs.net

Main duties of the job

The Associate Director (AD) for R&D will provide strategic direction and leadership to the Trust’s R&D activities working closely with the Head of Research and Development to ensure maximum influence and impact upon clinical services. The AD for R&D will be responsible for ensuring that BSMHFT remains at the forefront of research, developing a brand both nationally and internationally as a world leader in Mental Health Research and Development. In addition to academic institutions, the post holder will liaise closely with the Clinical Research Network (CRN) West Midlands and other bodies actively involved in initiating research and/or developing innovative practises, encouraging adoption of proven interventions and practises.

Working for our organisation

The R&D department is currently made up of 22 staff members, which includes Research Nurses and Clinical Study Officers. The team works together to ensure NIHR portfolio studies are set up and delivered in line with local targets, to support our local Chief Investigators in delivering their own work and to provide help and support to junior researchers embarking on their personal research careers. The department offers a varied service across numerous specialties.

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As part of our safe recruitment practice pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. As part of the selection process you may be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, however all cases of criminal record history are dealt with on a case by case basis.

Please note, if applicable for your role you will be required to cover the cost of your DBS certificate. This will be deducted from your salary over 3 months. You will also be required to sign up to the DBS Update Service before commencement with the Trust.

All successful applicants will be required to complete the Trust’s induction programme. The Fundamental (Statutory and Mandatory) training will be in an e-learning format. You will be required to complete training modules online (approx. 9-14 hours depending on post) in your own time prior to any unconditional offer being made.

If you are successful at the shortlisting stage of the recruitment process we may contact you via email to advise you of the interview details. Please ensure you access your email account from which you applied regularly once the position has closed.

If applicable to your role, the Trust will require you to sign up for the DBS Update Service. The subscription will cost you £13 a year but the Trust will reimburse this. You will be contractually obliged to maintain your subscription.

Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the United Kingdom (UK) are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. Please note that from January 2021, to work in the UK all candidates who are not UK or Republic of Ireland (RoI) nationals require sponsorship unless you have permission to work via another route. Non UK / RoI candidates wishing to apply can self-assess the likelihood of obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship here Browse: Work in the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) 1. It is vital that you provide full and accurate details of your current immigration status on the application form. Overseas applicants applying for entry clearance into the UK must present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided in continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Not everyone needs a ‘Skilled Worker’ visa. If you are applying for a vacancy in health or adult social care, check if you’re eligible to apply for the Health and Care Worker visa instead. It’s cheaper to apply for and you do not need to pay the annual immigration health surcharge.