Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine's new Human Challenge Facility has several academic investigators working in the field of challenge studies to accelerate the development of interventions that will impact on global health. We have outstanding facilities fully dedicated to human challenge studies including an outpatient (18-bed) and inpatient (12-bed high containment rooms) as well as laboratory facilities including CL3. We have an ambitious plan for expansion of existing and new challenge models working in partnership with industry and our academic collaborations in the UK and worldwide working on human infection field.
We are seeking a Clinical Director who will provide leadership, management, and oversight of the Human Challenge Facility. This role is critical in fostering a culture of safety, establishing comprehensive monitoring frameworks, and developing quality systems for studies involving deliberate pathogen exposure. The Clinical Director will lead a period of change to enhance the national and international reputation of the facility while maximising regional partnership opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership and Strategic Direction
1. Oversee delivery of the HCF's strategic research plans.
2. Prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders and oversight bodies.
3. Maintain and enhance the reputation of the unit for delivering high-impact, high-quality, safe, and ethical controlled human infection studies.
4. Ensure a robust Quality Management System within HCF, aligning with MHRA and other regulatory bodies.
5. Collaborate with LSTM's research groups, including the Global Health Trials Unit, and external partner institutions.
6. Support and monitor the strategic delivery of operational and business plans alongside the Head of Operations.
7. Implement and oversee risk management procedures, ensuring proper escalation of issues and mitigation plans.
8. Chair the HCF Leadership Committee.
9. Develop and strengthen relationships with Phase 1 clinical trial units, University of Liverpool, the Pandemic Institute, and UHLG CRF.
Safety Culture
1. Provide expertise in adapting early-phase trial approaches to challenge studies and lead the development of novel safety strategies.
2. Implement systems to prevent, assess, and manage adverse events in research participants, fostering a learning safety culture.
3. Establish governance frameworks and clinical risk oversight systems.
4. Develop comprehensive medical monitoring plan templates.
5. Conduct regular emergency response drills and simulation exercises.
6. Empower staff to raise safety concerns and implement continuous improvement processes for safety protocols.
7. Represent the facility in discussions on evolving standards for challenge studies.
Management
1. Lead, manage, and mentor a team of academic and support staff.
2. Establish communication channels with relevant committees, boards, and networks within LSTM.
3. Develop effective management structures for the HCF.
4. Promote effective communication and positive morale within the unit.
5. Address and resolve conflicts and grievances in collaboration with HR, following appropriate LSTM procedures.
Partnerships and Relationships
1. Represent the HCF at national and international levels.
2. Establish and strengthen links with relevant professional and industry bodies.
3. Position the facility as a leader in safety innovation for human challenge research.
4. Drive positive change through internal and external collaborations.
The Ideal Candidate Will Possess:
1. CCT in a relevant speciality and on the GMC specialist register.
2. Experience managing, supervising, and mentoring a team.
3. Expertise in developing and implementing rigorous safety monitoring.
4. Leadership experience in implementing systems that have passed regulatory inspection.
5. Experience in studies involving healthy participants requiring intensive safety monitoring.
6. Expertise in preventing, assessing, and managing adverse events and fostering a learning safety culture.
7. Experience developing risk assessment protocols for high-risk studies.
In return, we offer:
1. 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and additional Christmas closure days.
2. Generous occupational pension schemes.
3. Government-backed Cycle to Work scheme.
4. Discounted staff membership at the University of Liverpool Sports Centre.
5. A supportive and inclusive working environment.
6. Retain NHS Pension membership.
Application Process:
To apply for this position, please click the apply link and upload your CV and a covering letter outlining how your experience meets the person specification. Due to the high volume of applications, we may close the vacancy early, so early application is recommended.
Inclusion at LSTM
LSTM is committed to attracting and recruiting individuals who reflect the diversity across our communities. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, ensuring selection is based on skills, qualifications, and experience.
We support flexible working arrangements and encourage applications from those returning to employment after a career break.
About LSTM
Founded in 1898, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is a globally recognised centre of excellence in tropical disease research and teaching. Our work improves health outcomes in resource-poor settings through research collaborations with governments, NGOs, and institutions worldwide. Learn more about our impact by viewing our annual report: Annual Report.
LSTM actively promotes Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding Policies. #J-18808-Ljbffr