Research Assistant - Ophthalmology

Job overview

The Research Assistant role at the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust offers a unique opportunity for an experienced Healthcare Assistant to transition into the field of healthcare science. This position is meaningful because it places you at the intersection of direct patient care and the discovery of future medical treatments. It allows you to move beyond routine clinical tasks and become an active participant in the innovation process that defines new standards of care.

For a candidate, the true value of this role lies in the expansion of your professional scope. You are a vital link in a multidisciplinary team of researchers, clinicians, and sponsors. There is profound satisfaction in supporting patients through their research journey, providing the empathy and reassurance they need while ensuring the accuracy of the data that makes scientific breakthroughs possible.

Main duties of the job

Clinical Support and Patient Care

• Clinical Procedures: Perform essential clinical tasks, including ECGs, phlebotomy, and routine clinical observations such as blood pressure, pulse, and oxygen saturation.
• Patient Monitoring: Assist in the ongoing monitoring of trial participants by accurately recording and reporting tests as required by specific research protocols.
• Direct Care Delivery: Work alongside registered nurses and research staff to deliver planned care, ensuring the highest standards of safety and comfort for patients and their families.
• Patient Preparation: Prepare and support patients for examinations, assessments, and treatments following the informed consent process.
• Emergency Response: Recognise and respond appropriately to urgent or emergency clinical situations, summoning assistance from the wider medical team when necessary.

Research and Data Coordination

• Trial Documentation: Ensure the accurate and timely entry of trial-related data into both electronic and paper capture systems in strict compliance with study protocols.
• Portfolio Support: Assist the wider research team with participant screening, the informed consent process, and the planning of follow-up appointments.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Please review full Job description & person Specifcation

Furthermore, the Royal Surrey’s commitment to "Learning Together" makes this an ideal environment for professional development. The role provides a clear pathway to gain further clinical and research skills within a supportive, nationally recognised R&D department. It is a career choice for those who want their daily work to leave a lasting legacy—where every observation recorded contributes to a healthier future. By joining this team, you ensure that compassionate care and pioneering research are delivered side by side.