Professor/Reader in Clinical Trials & Methodology
WORLD-CHANGING GLASGOW:
UNIVERSITY FOR THE WORLD
Job Purpose
Over the past five years, the University of Glasgow has made substantial strategic investment to consolidate its position as a leading centre for world-class health research. This includes the creation of the Centre of Excellence for Trials Collaboration and a Trusted Research Environment, hosting the 2021-2026 MRC Doctoral Training Programme trial methodology scheme and initiating a Masters programme in Clinical Trials. These innovations have increasingly positioned Glasgow as a national and international centre of excellence in trials methodology, digital trial delivery, and embedded methodological innovation.
This new senior strategic post therefore offers an exciting opportunity for an outstanding academic leader to shape the next phase of growth, contribute to the continued development of clinical trial methodology and delivery, and strengthen the University’s international impact in trial design, conduct, and outcomes. It will be based in its UKCRC-registered Glasgow Clinical Trials Unit/ Robertson Centre for Biostatistics which has an established and continuing track record of designing and delivering impactful trials and publishing in leading journals.
There is a strong institutional commitment and a shared vision and partnership with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde to consolidate and further develop a seamless and connected clinical trials ecosystem in Glasgow. There is access to a diverse population in the largest Health Board in Scotland along with expanding opportunities to collaborate with world-class Chief Investigators in Glasgow and elsewhere across a range of clinical and non-clinical disciplines. In addition, there are strong links with translational research and excellent scope for interdisciplinary work (e.g. engineering/ bio-engineering/ social sciences).
The University of Glasgow, a Russell Group University, is undergoing a transformational campus development on the site of the former Western Infirmary. New world-class and sustainable buildings include the James McCune Smith Learning Hub, the Advanced Research Centre, the Clarice Pears Building (which houses the CTU in purpose-designed premises) and the Adam Smith Business School. The Keystone building (currently under construction) will complete in 2028/9 the creation of a new St Mungo Square, housing a range of dry and wet lab spaces, high-spec computing labs and general teaching facilities for 3600 students. The campus is closely integrated with the busy West End (Byres Road area) which is packed with cafes, restaurants, independent shops, as well as theatre and cinemas.
Main duties & responsibilities
For appointment at Reader level:
- Undertake a leading role in delivering Glasgow’s excellence in clinical trial methodology within the CTU, supporting CTU development in close partnership with the CETC.
- Act as a principal investigator or project leader on major trials and methodological projects, contributing a portfolio of publications of high-quality and impact and enhancing Glasgow’s visibility in UK and international clinical trials networks.
- Contribute methodological expertise to developing and enhancing major funding applications (e.g. complex interventions, adaptive/platform designs, data-enabled trials, evaluation science), assessing the landscape for appropriate funding opportunities which are strategically aligned and strengthening grant capture.
- Support development of high-quality funding applications developed within the CTU, advising on innovative, appropriate and well-considered statistical designs that optimise trial methodology and maximise study outcomes
- Mentor early career statisticians within the CTU in the design and delivery of clinical trials within the candidate’s specific area(s) of expertise, working alongside the CTU’s Director of Biostatistics.
- Supervise research (including PhD) projects related to trials/ trial methodology undertaken by research staff, postgraduate and undergraduate students across the MVLS College to support the effective development of staff and students. Actively engage with potential research students of high calibre intending to undertake postgraduate and doctoral research, building effective working relationships and supervising to completion
- Undertake academic management and leadership roles and responsibilities in a manner that enhances the student experience, ensures programmes are benchmarked and of international standing and that values and supports a culture of enhancement.
- Develop a strategic and inclusive approach to embedding innovative learning technologies across the Subject/School and College, recognising the needs of a diverse student cohort, supporting and enhancing course/programme delivery, course organisation, feedback and assessment within campus based, blended and online provision.
- Build effective internal and external collaborations to support the development and mentoring of academic staff and their learning, enhancing research and teaching.
- Regularly attend and participate in appropriate activities to contribute effectively to subject specialism (e.g. through learned societies, professional bodies, broader review and editorial processes, presentation at local, national, international conferences) - at all times to enhance learning within the discipline and represent the University externally.
- Through an established network of external stakeholders, increasingly influence public understanding and or professional policy and practice.
- Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the CTU Director and/or the Head of School
- Contribute to the enhancement of the University’s international profile in line with the University’s Strategic Plan, World Changing Glasgow, University for the World.
For appointment at Professorial level:
We would expect the postholder to contribute to all of the ‘Reader’ duties, in addition to:
- Provide a lead strategic role in delivering Glasgow’s excellence in clinical trial methodology and delivery in partnership with the CETC.
- Sustain internationally leading high-quality clinical trial and related methodology research activity, seeking and securing funding for a portfolio of research projects through grant applications to external funding bodies, including infrastructure funding to underpin the growth and sustainability of trials methodology support and innovation.
- Take a leading role across the University in relation to strategic learning and teaching initiatives through: embedding a research-led, evidence-based ethos in teaching and learning; leading on teaching collaborations and teaching innovations; and influencing teaching and assessment practices and policy across the School/College.
- Make a substantial contribution to University Committees/Working Groups to ensure the advancement of learning and teaching policies and practice that align with local and international challenges in Higher Education, evolving student needs and other related changes in the University’s strategic context.
- Represent the School/College/University on key external bodies and at significant external events nationally and internationally to promote excellence in research and teaching, and the development of professional practice.
- Ensure a substantial track record of, and demonstrate leadership in, knowledge creation and transfer, ensuring impact on external bodies and contributions to public understanding and contributing fully to key strategic initiatives that underpin School, College and University strategies for external engagement.
- Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the CTU Director and/or the Head of School
Knowledge and qualifications
Essential
For appointment at Reader level:
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Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD) or equivalent Postgraduate qualification in Statistics, clinical trials or equivalent.
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Recognised expertise in subject discipline/specialism to develop new knowledge and understanding within the field.
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A thorough understanding of, and track record in, contributing to broader academic leadership and management at School/Service/College level.
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Extensive knowledge of innovative design and delivery of clinical trials.
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Knowledge of the requirements of Good Clinical Practice and all other legal and regulatory requirements in the management and analysis of clinical studies.
Desirable
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Membership of a relevant professional body.
Skills
Essential
For appointment at Reader level:
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Experience of working in/alongside a CTU.
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Established track record of successfully securing significant levels of funding for research projects.
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Substantial track record of published research of international standard compatible with enhancing the School/College’s submission to the REF.
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Internationally recognised excellence and reputation in subject area and scholarship of teaching the discipline.
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Proven ability to plan and lead staff and efficiently deploy resources in support of major research and teaching activities
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Knowledge and understanding, and experience of contributing to, administration and management of a CTU or other research centre.
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Ability to disseminate conceptual and complex ideas to a wide variety of audiences including within the subject, School, College, University, and beyond, in the academic, policy and practitioner communities.
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Ability to forge new and effective relationships with colleagues, internally and externally, to foster collaboration across the University and with colleagues in other institutions
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Excellent project management and strategic thinking skills.
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Demonstrable experience of contributing to the student experience through creation, development and provision of teaching and learning activities.
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Demonstrated commitment to open research, as appropriate to the discipline, through open data, open code, open educational resources and practices that support replication.
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Proven commitment to supporting the career development of colleagues and to other forms of collegiality appropriate to the career stage.
For appointment at Professorial level
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An established and internationally recognised reputation for high-quality research and knowledge exchange in subject specialism.
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A sustained track record of substantial research income (i.e. supporting research staff) from a range of sources.
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Maintaining an established portfolio of research activity of international quality, reputation and impact.
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A thorough understanding of, track record in, contributing to broader academic leadership and management. Potential to contribute to the academic leadership and management of School/College/University.
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Proven ability to lead and deliver high quality and innovative University teaching, including assessment and curriculum development.
Desirable
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Proven track record of developing and devising teaching programmes, techniques, and methods.
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Track record of student supervision and development/mentorship/coaching of early career researchers.
Experience
Essential:
- Experience of working in/alongside a CTU.
- Established track record of successfully securing significant levels of funding for research projects.
- Substantial track record of published research of international standard compatible with enhancing the School/College’s submission to the REF.
- Demonstrable experience of contributing to the student experience through creation, development and provision of teaching and learning activities.
How to apply
Full details of the role and how to apply can be found by visiting our website:
The closing date for applications is 23:45 on 27 September 2026.
Informal Enquiries should be directed to Professor John Petrie John.Petrie@glasgow.ac.uk and/or Professor Rod Taylor Rod.Taylor@glasgow.ac.uk
Terms & Conditions
Salary for Reader appointments will be Grade 9, SP49, £67,468 per annum. Professorial salaries are competitive and determined based on our Professorial Zone Descriptors, aligned with our Professorial Zone Boundaries.
The Professor appointment will be subject to the whole powers and conditions of any Act of Parliament, Ordinances, and Law affecting the University. The appointment is a whole-time appointment, the Professor undertaking to accept paid outside work only with the prior consent of the University Court. This provision does not apply to examinerships and such other appointments as are incidental to the ordinary course of University business.
This post is full time (35 hours per week) and open ended (permanent).
Relocation assistance will be provided where appropriate.
Details of three referees should be included on the applicant information form.
Campus development plan
Our Vision
Over the next 10 years, the major investment will expand our campus footprint by 25%, creating a new urban quarter with the University at the heart of a revitalised west end. This is the largest development since the creation of the original campus in 1870.
This is a unique opportunity for a University to extend the boundaries of its historic core in a central city location. It will create:
- New learning and teaching facilities
- Refurbishment and repurposing of existing iconic buildings for specialist uses
- Identification and design of social spaces that support the student and community experience.
The expansion of our Gilmorehill campus into the 14 acre, former Western Infirmary site will transform the West End of Glasgow. The Masterplan for the site will incorporate:
- New learning and teaching facilities supporting our students and making sure they get the best in modern teaching and learning styles and approaches
- Creation of a Research Hub, housing large-scale multidisciplinary projects and incubator space for spin out collaborations with industry. This will encourage further innovation development
- New public cycle and pedestrian routes and a new central square which will link Byres Road to the up-and-coming cultural quarter for the West End, with new links to Kelvingrove and the newly-refurbished Kelvin Hall
- Refurbishment of five listed buildings: The Chapel, the Outpatients building, the Macgregor building, the Tennent Institute and Anderson College
- Commercial opportunities, including a hotel, restaurant, bars and cafes
- The state of the art Learning and Teaching Hub adjacent to the Boyd Orr building on University Avenue will be completed next year.
Find out more
The City of Glasgow
With a population of over 1 million, Glasgow, situated near the west coast of Scotland, is Scotland's largest city and the UK's fourth largest whilst serving as the traditional gateway to the spectacular Highlands and Islands.
Glasgow is home to Scotland's national opera and media, and is renowned for its architecture, museums, festivals and food scene, whilst also being the UK's first UNESCO City of Music.
With its deep-rooted history, contemporary culture and world-class facilities, Glasgow continues to shine on the global stage. Following its successful hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2014 and COP26 in 2021, and recognition as the European Capital of Sport in 2023, the city this year celebrates its 850th birthday and was the proud hosts of the 2026 Comonwealth Games again.
Voted the friendliest city in the world (source: Conde Nast Traveller 2025 Readers' Choice Awards), Glasgow truly lives up to its strapline, 'People Make Glasgow', encapsulating the warmth, diversity and character of its multinational community.
The Gaelic for Glasgow translates to 'Dear Green Place' in recognition that the city boasts over 90 parks and gardens whilst being just a short drive from Loch Lomond and Scotland's stunning countryside.
Glasgow is well connected with major European destinations less than an hour away. Two train stations serve the city alongside one of the oldest subway systems in Europe and an International Airport.
Living in Glasgow
A UNESCO City of Music, a vibrant arts and culture scene, a food-lover’s delight, and a shopper’s paradise. Just some of the highlights of the ‘friendliest city in the world’. As well as that accolade by the Rough Guides poll, Glasgow has also been named a must visit destination by publications including the New York Times, The Guardian, and Wanderlust.
Music
The city hosts an average of 130 music events a week catering for every taste; from rock to rap, and classical to country. Glasgow also has a world class club scene playing host to some of the world’s top DJs.
Shopping
Outside of London’s West End, Glasgow is frequently voted the best place for shopping in the UK. A must-visit destination for any shop-a-holic, it houses high street chains, international designers, and independent retailers. The West End, home to the University of Glasgow, is bustling with vintage fashion, vinyl stores, and second-hand bookshops.
Arts and Culture
Glasgow’s arts scene has gone from strength to strength, and is the base for five internationally renowned performing arts companies including the National Theatre of Scotland and Scottish Ballet. The city has several world-class museums, which are free to the public, and the city’s architecture is a work of art in itself.
Food and drink
You can be in Glasgow and taste the world with its many diverse restaurants, cafes, and bars. And if you’ve yet to sample the delights of haggis and whisky, Glasgow is the place to be.
The City and Beyond
Glasgow has all the opportunities and excitement of a big city but its compact size means you can quickly travel from one vibrant district to the next. You could be relaxing in one of its many parks, before shopping in the quirky West End, and enjoying the wee small hours in the Merchant City.
And when you fancy getting out of the city you can reach the stunning Loch Lomond in just 30 minutes, climb one of our many breath-taking Munros, play golf at one of Scotland’s many world-class courses, visit one of our ancient castles, or go further North and search for Nessie! Scotland has also just been named the world’s most beautiful country by Rough Guides.
Relocating to Glasgow
Choosing to relocate to Glasgow is a big decision. There are numerous things to be considered, such as the costs of moving, the cost of living, and where exactly to relocate to. We have created two guides to aide you in the decision making process.
Find out more on relocating to Glasgow at the below link:
World-Changing Glasgow - University for the World
Our strategy sets out a bold ambition to transform lives through ideas and action grounded in world leading research, teaching and innovation.
This is a strategy rooted in ambition and grounded in reality. We are among the world’s leading universities, but we aspire to be the best university for the world.
At it’s heart our strategy is about partnership, with our students, our colleagues, our city and our global community of alumni and partners. Together we will shape a future that reflects our values, builds on our strengths, and recognises our shared responsibility to make a positive difference.
Find out more
It is the University of Glasgow’s mission to foster an inclusive climate, which ensures equality in our working, learning, research and teaching environment. We strongly endorse the principles of Athena SWAN, including a supportive and flexible working environment, with commitment from all levels of the organisation in promoting gender equity.
Our values
The future holds innumerable challenges for our sector, our society, and our world. We will have to adapt and change what we do and what we offer if we are to navigate these successfully. Our strategy and approach may evolve as the landscape changes, but our values will remain constant: a fixed point of certainty in uncertain times.
We have identified our values in consultation and partnership with our staff and student community. Living and upholding these values will ensure that we remain true to the spirit of our community and ourselves:
Ambition and Excellence
- We strive for excellence through our work
- We defend academic freedom globally
- We recognise and celebrate shared success
- We have an unrelenting focus on development
Curiosity and Discovery
- We innovate and solve problems together
- We lead by influence and example
- We engage with lifelong learning and personal development
- We learn from our mistakes
