Job Description

We are seeking a Senior Mathematical Modeller to join our team in Evaluation and Epidemiological Science and the Health Protection Research Unit in Evaluation and Behavioural Science. This post is funded through the NIHR HPRU scheme. The post holder will work on a range of projects within multidisciplinary teams. They will develop novel mathematical and statistical models to address key public health research questions of relevance to the UKHSA. They will work closely with the HPRU colleagues at the University of Bristol including leading mathematical modellers. It would be desirable for the post holder to also be familiar with health economic modelling and to apply economic analyses as part of the modelling analysis. The post holder will be expected to develop effective collaborations and coordinate the research to meet objectives. Research will respond to policy needs and should provide insight for policy makers, epidemiologists, clinicians and other stakeholders. Good communication skills are essential.



This role will be based in the Evaluation and Epidemiological Science (EES) Division. EES provides leadership and strengthened capabilities and capacity in the delivery of public health evaluations and application of epidemiological science, with the Scientific Strategy and Evidence Group, CSO. The scope of the Division spans across the all-hazards remit of UKHSA, including public health incidents and emergency preparedness and response. EES functions include:



Deliver on the UKHSA Science Strategy commitment to strengthen evaluation science, rapid research and evaluation in emergencies to inform the public health response to incidents

Provide leadership, scientific subject matter expertise and strengthen best practice in evaluation and epidemiological science across the all-hazards remit of UKHSA

Lead the identification and prioritisation of UKHSA needs for evaluations of public health interventions

Lead a work programme which provides the evidence base to strengthen public health outcomes and deliver impact

Develop and disseminate methods, tools, and guidance to inform and strengthen best practices

Lead a community of practice for evaluation to strengthen partnerships, share good practice and deliver training and skill development opportunities

Form strategic partnerships and collaborations including with academic and industry partners to strengthen UKHSA capabilities, leverage external grant income and deliver a programme of scientific research aligned to priorities



We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.



UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.



Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers

Your key responsibilities will include to:

lead development of mathematical and statistical models of the transmission, control and burden of infectious diseases



take the lead in the parameterisation of the models by analysis of appropriate data and literature review



identify, use and analyse complex data-sets, synthesizing multiple evidence sources, and using a range of software including data-base and statistical packages



develop and use mathematical and/or statistical models to further our understanding of infections



develop models used to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of infection prevention and control measures and other intervention strategies



adapt and extend existing models (written in, for e.g., R) where necessary



develop and implement protocols for managing development of models



work and communicate effectively within a multidisciplinary team and coordinate research accordingly



liaise and collaborate effectively with UK and international colleagues



manage own programme of work and to use considerable initiative and independence



give presentations at national and international meetings as appropriate



prepare papers for peer-reviewed scientific journals



The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary.



Selection process details



This vacancy will be assessed using a competency-based framework which will assess your knowledge and experience, and/or skills and abilities outlined in the essential criteria.



You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the 15 essential criteria listed, and this will be in the form of a :



Application form ( ' Employer/ Activity history' section on the application)



1000 word supporting statement



This should outline how you consider your skills, experience, and knowledge, provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.



The Application form and supporting statement will be marked together.

Longlisting :

In the event of a large number of applications we will longlist into 3 piles of:



Meets all essential criteria



Meets some essential criteria



Meets no essential criteria



Piles Meets all essential criteria will be moved through to the shortlisting stage.

Shortlisting:

In the event of a large number of applications we will shortlist on:



Significant mathematical or statistical modelling experience



Please do not exceed 1000 words. We will not consider any words over and above this number. If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to an interview. Unfortunately, late applications will not be considered.



Please note you will not be able to upload your CV. You must complete the application form in as much detail as possible. Please do not email us your CV.



Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Stage 2:

Interview (competency based)



You will be invited to a (single) remote interview.



Knowledge, experience, skills & abilities will be tested at interview



There will be a 5-minute Presentation at interview, full details will be provided at the shortlisting stage.



Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.



Location



This role is being offered as hybrid working based at any of our Core HQ's.



We offer great flexible working opportunities at UKHSA and operate using a hybrid working model where business needs allow. This provides us with greater flexibility about how and where we work, to get the best from our workforce. As a hybrid worker, you will be expected to spend a minimum of 60% of your contractual working hours (approximately 3 days a week pro rata, (averaged over a month) working at one of UKHSA's core HQ's (Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, and London).



Our core HQ offices are modern and newly refurbished with excellent city centre transport link and benefit from benefit from co-location with other government departments such as the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC).



Eligibility Criteria



Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants).



Security Clearance Level Requirement



Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check.