Research Associate in Human Physiology, Immunology, and Long COVID
Investigate biological mechanisms of fatigue and post-exertional symptom exacerbation in Long COVID and related conditions.
Best for:Best for PhD holders in physiology, exercise science, or biomedical research with experience in human participant studies, physiological testing, and data management.
Overview
This Research Associate position at Loughborough University’s School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences focuses on uncovering the physiological and immunological underpinnings of Long COVID and post-infectious fatigue. The successful candidate will conduct participant recruitment, physiological assessments (including CPET and autonomic testing), biological sample processing, and data integration, collaborating with teams at Loughborough, Imperial College London, and international partners. The role emphasizes hands-on research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and contributions to high-impact translational studies aimed at improving diagnosis and treatment of Long COVID. Ideal for PhD holders with expertise in human physiology, exercise science, or biomedical research, offering a dynamic environment to advance understanding of chronic health conditions.
What you'll do
- Conduct participant recruitment and manage longitudinal studies involving individuals with Long COVID and related conditions.
- Perform cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and autonomic nervous system assessments to evaluate physiological responses.
- Collect, process, and analyze biological samples (e.g., blood, saliva) for immunological and physiological markers.
- Deploy wearable technology for continuous symptom monitoring and data collection.
- Coordinate project activities, including participant follow-ups, data management, and integration of findings.
- Collaborate with researchers at Loughborough University, Imperial College London, and international partners.
- Support laboratory procedures and ensure adherence to ethical and safety protocols.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in Sport and Exercise Science, Physiology, Biomedical Science, Health Sciences, or a related discipline
Language: English (proficiency required for research communication and participant interactions)
Instruction: English
- Experience conducting research involving human participants, including ethical approval processes.
- Proficiency in physiological testing methods, such as CPET and autonomic assessments.
- Skills in biological sample collection, processing, and analysis.
- Familiarity with data management and integration tools (e.g., statistical software, databases).
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills for multidisciplinary collaboration.
- No explicit eligibility restrictions beyond degree requirement.
- Open to international applicants (assume standard UK visa policies apply).
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-25
Apply through the Loughborough University vacancy portal. Submit a CV, cover letter, and academic references. For informal inquiries, contact Professor Mark Faghy via email. Full job description and person specification available on the university’s website.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic references (likely 2-3 letters)
- Job Description and Person Specification (linked in application)
Contact
Mark Faghy· Professor of Clinical Exercise Physiology
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