This project is funded by the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland under the Dementia Research Award Scheme and is being conducted in partnership with the Regional Specialist Memory Clinic at Tallaght University Hospital. 

The project aims to pilot and evaluate a new service delivery model for Cognitive Rehabilitation (CR) using a supervised clinical placement for trainee psychologists, who will deliver CR to people with dementia in a community setting. The study will use a mixed-methods design to evaluate the effectiveness of the implementation model, and a quantitative pre-post design with an embedded n-of-1 trial to evaluate the impact of CR on goal attainment, cognitive function, and quality of life for n=36 participants with dementia. The results will be integrated to inform guidelines for wider service delivery. 

The successful candidate will be responsible for participant recruitment, coordination of placement activities, and supporting the research activities for this project. This fixed-term part-time contract is for 13 months at 0.5 FTE (2.5 days per week, flexible days/hours), with a proposed start date of September 2024.  

Research Group:

ProBrain Research Laboratory, Psychology Department, School of Business at National College of Ireland

Location:

National College of Ireland, Mayor Square, IFSC, Dublin 1

Reporting to:

Dr Michelle Kelly, Associate Professor of Psychology and Dr Caoimhe Hannigan, Assistant Professor of Psychology at National College of Ireland (Principal Investigators); Dr Garret McDermott, Clinical Neuropsychologist at Tallaght University Hospital (Clinical Lead). 

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordination of placement activities for trainee psychologists. 
• Supporting recruitment of participants with dementia through the memory services at Tallaght University Hospital, to take part in the CR intervention study.
• Supporting participant recruitment for qualitative interviews with key stakeholder groups.
• Collection, management, and analysis of data on key performance indicators related to the implementation model.
• Quantitative data collection using cognitive assessments and psychometric scales.
• Qualitative data collection using semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders.
• Management and analysis of quantitative data sets.
• Management and analysis of qualitative data using thematic analysis methods.
• Preparation, in consultation with the wider research team, material for publication in peer-reviewed journals and for presentation at national and international conferences.
• Support for PPI activities including co-facilitation of PPI workshops.
• Contribute to regular meetings of the core project team and project steering group.
• Support for project management activities as specified in the Project Management Plan.
• General administrative duties as required.
• Travel to meet the needs of the post (in the Greater Dublin Area)
• Ensure research resources are used in an effective and efficient manner.

Qualifications (Essential)

• A primary degree in psychology or other related health/social care discipline 
• A postgraduate qualification (e.g., MSc) in Psychology, Research Methods, or other relevant discipline
• Knowledge and Experience (Essential)
• Previous practical experience working with participants in research projects, for example, participant recruitment and quantitative and/or qualitative data collection
• Computer skills including experience in use of Microsoft Office programmes
• Experience of quantitative data analysis and familiarity with quantitative data analysis software (e.g. SPSS)

Knowledge and Experience (Desirable)

• Previous experience working with older adults or vulnerable populations
• Familiarity with qualitative analysis software (e.g. NVivo, MAXQDA)
• Experience of qualitative data analysis
• Experience of working with multiple stakeholders such as healthcare professionals, caregivers, or patient groups
• Prior project management or administrative experience

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent organisational and administrative skills – ability to plan and coordinate tasks to meet deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal skills – ability to establish rapport with research participants
• Excellent analytical skills, accuracy, and attention to detail
• Project management and time management 
• Understanding of research ethics and ability to maintain confidentiality at all times
• Highly motivated and capable of working independently as well as within a team
• Excellent problem-solving skills and an ability to take initiative, along with good judgment and decision-making skills
• Ability to organise and plan own work schedule within the framework of the agreed research programme

Salary:

 €17,925 per annum (for 0.5 FTE – 2.5 days per week). Salary is commensurate with experience equivalent to Point 7 of the Research Assistant IUA Researcher Salary Scale.

Contract: 

Fixed term, part time contract of 13 months at 0.5 FTE (2.5 days per week, flexible days/hours)

Location: 

National College of Ireland, Mayor Square, IFSC, Dublin 1

National College of Ireland’s mission is to widen participation in higher education and unlock each student's potential. The College offers students the opportunity to acquire the skills and self-confidence to change their lives, contribute to a knowledge based economy and become responsible, active citizens. 

Application Process:

To apply, please email your cover letter and CV, quoting the title of the position: 1049 Research Assistant – ProBrain Lab ASI to recruitment@ncirl.ie by Friday 6th September 2024 at 5pm.

NATIONAL COLLEGE OF IRELAND HAS A RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT ALL EMPLOYEES ARE ELIGIBLE TO LIVE AND WORK IN THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND.

Note: The functions and responsibilities assigned to the Research Assistant – ProBrain Lab ASI are based on the current stated role and objectives of the College. These functions and responsibilities may alter in line with any change in the role and objectives of  NCI.

The successful applicant will be subject to Garda Vetting and must not have any convictions under the Sex Offenders Act 2001.

National College of Ireland is an equal opportunities employer.

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We would like to assure you that protecting confidentiality is our number one priority. You can expect that all enquires, applications and all aspects of the proceedings are treated as strictly confidential and are not disclosed to anyone, outside those directly involved in that aspect of the process. 

Candidates' Obligations

In submitting a completed Curriculum Vitae and supporting documentation, candidates are declaring:

• That all the particulars furnished in their application are true and correct without omission and that they are aware of the qualifications and particulars for this position.
• That to the best of their knowledge that there is nothing in relation to their conduct, character or personal background of any nature that would adversely affect the position of trust in which they would be placed by virtue of this appointment.
• Their irrevocable consent to NCI making such enquiries as deemed necessary in respect of their suitability for the post in respect of which their application is made.
• Their acceptance and confirmation of the entitlement of NCI, as appropriate to, reject their application, or to terminate their employment (in the event of a contract of employment having been entered into on foot of this competition) if they have omitted to furnish NCI with any information relevant to their application or their continued employment or where they have made any false statement or misrepresentation relevant to this application or their continuing employment with the College. #

Candidates should note that they may be required to submit documentary evidence in support of any particulars given by them in their application for the post.

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NCI conducts recruitment processes to fill vacancies within the college. When applying for these competitions applicants are asked to submit a range of documents, e.g., a completed application form, CV and/or a personal statement or cover letter. For the purposes of recruitment activities, we will not collect any personal data that we do not need to assess your candidature for a role with us.

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NCI Information Governance and Data Protection Officer

National College of Ireland, Mayor Street, IFSC, Dublin 1

Tel (Direct): + 353 1 4498 523 ; Tel (Reception): + 353 1 4498 500

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