We are delighted to announce this opportunity for a motivated orthoptist, with some previous research experience, to complete a research project on early years vision screening.
Background
From previous audits and from the collection of case studies, we have established what good screening looks like and why areas have lost their early years services.
We are now looking to gain better evidence to support why these services are needed in the first place, and what the impact is if we lose an early years vision screening service.
Post and project outline
- This post will consist of a 1-year secondment, at 40% FTE (e.g. 2 days per week).
- A research mentor will be assigned at the start of the project from the bank of BIOS mentors. The research orthoptist will liaise with their mentor regularly for support.
- Required attendance at research team meetings every two months with Research Directors, Chair, Vision Screening CAG Lead and Public Health Lead.
- You will be required to recruit participants and collect data. This may require some outreach events to ensure high response rates. You may be invited to attend meetings/conferences/symposiums etc (online or in person, and across the UK), where possible, to increase survey participation.
- You will be required to publish at least one article in BIOJ and present the findings at BIOS events.
Criteria and person specification:
| Essential | Desirable |
| Has undertaken clinical / academic research which may include auditing of data, analysis of data, project write up and publication/presentation, or reviewing literature/critical appraisal | Master’s Degree or equivalent |
| Research experience using survey software | |
| Peer reviewed publications | |
| Willingness to travel/attend meetings and conferences where required by BIOS to promote recruitment and data collection | |
| Proficient at using remote forms of communication/meeting | |
| Organised and committed with good time management | |
| Able to work flexibly |
This post is aimed at orthoptists with some previous research experience, and who would like to gain further experience in leading a research study. Early career researchers (ECRs) and research active clinical orthoptists will be considered. Highly experienced researchers may apply and will be considered if no ECRs apply to post.
Application Process
Application by CV and supporting statement (max 1500 words) to the BIOS Research Director researchdirector@orthoptics.org.uk.
The supporting statement may include an outline of how the applicant meets the person specification and criteria, expanding on your previous experience and relevant qualifications.
Applications should include a letter of support from your manager.
If there is more than one suitable applicant, interviews will be held to select a successful candidate.
For informal enquiries, please contact Kerry Hanna (researchdirector@orthoptics.org.uk).
Application Deadline: Monday 14 April 2025, 12 noon
