Clinical Research Fellow - Rheumatology
The closing date is 08 February 2026
Job summary
This exciting fixed-term post is funded by the Research and Development Department and offers a unique blend of 70% research and 30% clinical Rheumatology. The role provides protected time for clinical duties, research activity, and teaching and training.
Based at Southend Hospital, the Clinical Fellow will join a dynamic and supportive Rheumatology team in which all consultants are actively research-engaged. The department hosts a thriving clinical trials unit, staffed by two experienced research nurses and dedicated administrative support, creating a strong culture of innovation and collaboration.
Although the post does not carry formal educational approval, it offers training opportunities equivalent to those provided within the East Anglia registrar training programme. This role is ideal for someone wishing to develop subspecialty skills in rheumatology, gain significant research experience, or prepare for a future training number.
The balance of service and research commitments can be tailored to support the fellow's professional development, ensuring a rewarding and personalised training experience.
Main duties of the job
Clinical and Research Duties:
The post holder will support recruitment to NIHR portfolio commercial and non-commercial studies with support from research nurses and trial practitioners from the R&D Department, and the activities of the Rheumatology service. The Clinical Fellow is expected to complete GCP training and become involved in the clinical management of patients on research trials.
Carry out feasibility assessments of NIHR portfolio and non-portfolio commercial and non-commercial studies
Screen and actively participate in the consent process according to the principles of Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
Provide dedicated clinical trials support for treatment and follow-up for participants recruited to trials alongside the R&D and health care teams.
The Rheumatology Department has an active audit programme and the post holder would be expected to contribute to the audit. In particular audit projects are pertinent to the research that will be undertaken.
The Research Fellow will be involvement in specific projects with the aim to produce peer reviewed papers for publication. A consultant rota is in place that offers support to the research team
Undertake outpatient clinics
Inpatient Care: To see rheumatology ward referrals at Southend Hospital and liaise with the consultant on call to plan investigations and treatment.
About us
Our ambition is to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and well being of our patients, and provide a vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.
We aim to make the most of our skills and experiences so we can become the best we can be. As one organisation we will recruit the finest and retain more specialist staff due to more employment opportunities across our Trust.
Details
Date posted
06 February 2026
Pay scheme
Hospital medical and dental staff
Grade
Doctor - other
Salary
£44,170 to £67,610 a year Per Annum (Pro Rata for Part Time)
Contract
Fixed term
Duration
12 months
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
390-DoM-SO-3404-A
Job locations
Southend
Prittlewell Chase
Westcliff-on-Sea
SS0 0RY
Employer details
Employer name
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Address
Southend
Prittlewell Chase
Westcliff-on-Sea
SS0 0RY
Employer's website
https://www.mse.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)
Employer contact details
For questions about the job, contact:
Supporting documents
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