Job Description
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).
Job Summary
We are looking to recruit an enthusiastic Senior Data Scientist to the Advanced Analytics Data Science Team within the multidisciplinary Advanced Analytics Division in the Chief Data Officer Group. You will work with the team to provide high quality scientific advice and evidence to government on novel public health interventions collaborating internally with clinical and science teams. You will be applying a range of cutting-edge data science techniques ranging from classical modelling to generative AI.
You will use your skills to develop, evaluate and deploy data science solutions and applications that directly impact health security. You will have the opportunity to present and author papers on your work. You will have access to cutting-edge technology including cloud platforms, a High Performance Compute cluster and containerisation platforms. Working in the team, you will also have exposure to the teams’ existing collaborations with organisations across government and industry.
Job Description
The Chief Data Officer Group is comprised of a large community of data specialists. There is a lot of cross collaboration with a wide variety of subject matter experts allowing for interesting and boundary pushing work. Advanced Analytics is a multidisciplinary team, and you will be collaborating closely with Modelling and Data-Science for Emergency Preparedness, Resilience, and Response (EPRR), Economics, and Epidemiology Teams. Beyond Advanced Analytics, you will also have regular contact with other members of the wider Analysis and Intelligence Assessment directorate; and periodic or occasional contact with other subject matter experts within UKHSA, DSTL, DHSC, Cabinet Office and other similar organisations.
As the post holder you would bring your technical skills to the team to help break down incoming work into its technical components. You would identify and lead the development of cutting-edge technical projects that will improve efficiencies in public health.
You would be expected to be knowledgeable in mathematical, statistical, or computational techniques and will ensure that your knowledge is up-to-date by researching and testing new relevant tools or techniques.
Current projects led by Data Scientists in the team include:
- using large language models to identify discrepancies in guidance documents
- evaluating large language models’ suitability for assisting with different tasks in public health
- designing novel algorithms to process large scale anti-microbial resistance data
- design and deploy novel public health focused applications
- working with both our Economists and Health Economists to use data science and modelling techniques to assess the cost of different public health interventions
The above is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. You will carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required by the directorate.
The job description and person specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of the organisation.
Data science is a broad and fast-moving field spanning maths, statistics, software engineering and communications. Data scientists will often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, using data and analytics to inform and achieve organisational goals.
In This Role, You Will:
- be inquisitive
- explore and visualise data
- make recommendations to address complex problems and to inform strategic and operational decision making
- use data ethically and appropriately
- be innovative and adaptable
- explore existing and new data using a range of statistical tools and techniques, such as machine learning and predictive analytics
- find patterns in data and transform them into organisational insight
As the post holder you would bring your technical skills to the team to help break down incoming work into its technical components. You would identify and lead the development of cutting-edge technical projects that will improve efficiencies in public health.
You would be expected to be knowledgeable in mathematical, statistical, or computational techniques and will ensure that your knowledge is up-to-date by researching and testing new relevant tools or techniques.
Current projects led by Data Scientists in the team include:
- using large language models to identify discrepancies in guidance documents
- evaluating large language models’ suitability for assisting with different tasks in public health
- designing novel algorithms to process large scale anti-microbial resistance data
- design and deploy novel public health focused applications
- working with both our Economists and Health Economists to use data science and modelling techniques to assess the cost of different public health interventions
The above is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. You will carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required by the directorate.
The job description and person specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of the organisation.
Data science is a broad and fast-moving field spanning maths, statistics, software engineering and communications. Data scientists will often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, using data and analytics to inform and achieve organisational goals.
In This Role, You Will:
- be inquisitive
- explore and visualise data
- make recommendations to address complex problems and to inform strategic and operational decision making
- use data ethically and appropriately
- be innovative and adaptable
- explore existing and new data using a range of statistical tools and techniques, such as machine learning and predictive analytics
- find patterns in data and transform them into organisational insight
Essential Criteria
- A first or second-class honours degree in a numerate discipline, computer science or IT equivalent which demonstrates core statistical skills; OR have worked in a statistical/data science field and are able to demonstrate continuous professional development in statistics/data science at the same level as a foundation degree/HND (Level 5)
- Ability to apply advanced analytical and statistical techniques using a variety of software/codebases including practitioner level knowledge of coding including version control, SQL, Python and/or R or other programming languages relevant to data science; whilst supporting development of coding capability across the team.
- Expertise in wrangling, cleaning and pre-processing data for readiness for analysis and guiding best practice across the team.
- Ability to apply machine learning techniques, critically assessing model performance, limitations and ethical considerations whilst supporting the development of best practice across the team.
- Previous experience of leading a team of data scientists, ensuring high technical standards and professional development. Ensure effective delivery of programmes of work and manage competing demands under pressure.
- Ability to construct and deliver compelling data stories using advanced data visualisation techniques, confidently presenting findings to business owners, senior leadership, and forums such as conferences.
- Previous experience of mentoring data scientists in best practice including software best practice; writing functions, modular code, use of git-based version control systems and embedding peer review.
- Ability to ensure confidentiality issues and statutory information governance requirements are followed robustly
- Well-developed problem-solving skills and user centred approach to developing solutions and ensure evolving user requirements are translated into clear deliverable project outcomes.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to influence, communicate, present and capture requirements from technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Ability to negotiate confidently and advocate for the value of data science within wider organisational priorities.
- Exercise independent judgement setting direction where appropriate, proactively escalating critical decisions with well-formed recommendations, considering organisational priorities and risks.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. Ensure the promotion of good working relationships and inclusive team culture.
- Background in statistical methods
- Experience with Machine Learning frameworks or packages, eg. PyTorch
- Experience with cloud deployment, eg. AWS, Azure, or OpenShift
- Learning and development tailored to your role
- An environment with flexible working options
- A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
- A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
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.
Selection process details
Selection Process
Stage 1: Application & Sift
You Will Be Required To Complete An Application Form. You Will Be Assessed On The Listed Essential Criteria, And This Will Be In The Form Of An:
- Application form (‘Employer/ Activity history’ section on the application)
- 750 word Statement of Suitability linked to the essential criteria in the form of Behaviour statements linked to each of the three behaviours below (please write a maximum of 250 words linked to each of the three behaviours)
- Working Together
- Communicating and Influencing
- Changing and Improving
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.
The Application form and Statement of Suitability 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
In the event of a large number of applications we will shortlist on:
- Ability to apply advanced analytical and statistical techniques using a variety of software/codebases including practitioner level knowledge of coding including version control, SQL, Python and/or R; whilst supporting development of coding capability across the team.
Please do not exceed a total of 750 words (750 words for Statement of Suitability and 250 words per behaviour). We will not consider any words over and above this number.
Feedback will not be provided at this stage
Stage 2: Technical Assessment
You will be invited to remote Technical assessment.
You will be provided with a representative data science task and data set and have 90 minutes to construct a code-based solution.
You will then have an interactive remote discussion with a panel. Here you will present your outputs and respond to questions interactively. This session is expected to last around 30 minutes.
The assessment is predominately designed to test your coding and mathematical skills, and the marking will align to the GDD data science framework.
If you pass this stage, you will proceed to the final interview stage. Feedback will be provided at this stage.
Stage 3: Interview (success profiles)
You will be invited to remote interview.
This Vacancy Is Being Assessed Using Success Profiles And Technical Skills/Ability. During The Interview We Will Assess You Against The Below:
3 Behaviours and 2 Technical Behaviours from the DDAT data science profile will be tested at interview.
The Behaviours Tested During The Interview Stage Will Be:
- Working Together
- Changing and Improving
- Communicating and Influencing
- Data Science Innovation
- Delivering Business Impact
Please be aware that the salary is based on the office location
Senior Executive Officer (SEO)
- National £41,983 - £48,128
- Outer £44,148 - £50,121
- Inner £46,310 £52,113
Security Clearance Level Requirement
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed.
- The level of security needed is Basic Personnel Security Standard.
- Successful candidates must pass a standard disclosure and barring security check.
UKHSA is investing in a new state-of-the-art National Biosecurity Centre in Harlow, Essex, which will eventually bring together teams currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale and Porton Down. For more details, please see: Huge biosecurity centre investment to boost pandemic protection - GOV.UK.
The new facilities will start becoming operational in the mid-2030s, with full completion by 2038. Staff will move in phases as facilities become available. If you're appointed to a role currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale or Porton Down, please note that we'll continue investing in these sites for the next decade. As we get closer to the transition, we'll provide full information about relocation support available to staff.
Eligibility Criteria
Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including internal applicants).
Reasonable Adjustments
The Civil Service is committed to making sure that our selection methods are fair to everyone. To help you during the recruitment process, we will consider any reasonable adjustments that could help you. An adjustment is a change to the recruitment process or an adjustment at work. This is separate to the Disability Confident Scheme. If you need an adjustment to be made at any point during the recruitment process you should contact the recruitment team in confidence as soon as possible to discuss your needs.
You can find out more information about reasonable adjustments across the Civil Service here: https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/reasonable-adjustments/
International Police check
If you have spent more than 6 months abroad over the last 3 years you may need an International Police Check. This would not necessarily have to be in a single block, and it could be time accrued over that period.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.
Link Below:
Artificial intelligence and recruitment , Civil Service Careers
Careers website
Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:
- UK nationals
- nationals of the Republic of Ireland
- nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
- Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service welcomes applications from people who have recently left prison or have an unspent conviction. Read more about prison leaver recruitment (opens in new window).
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact :
- Name : john.inglis@ukhsa/gov.uk
- Email : john.inglis@ukhsa.gov.uk
- Email : recruitment@ukhsa.gov.uk
The law requires that selection for appointment to the Civil Service is on merit on the basis of fair and open competition as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's Recruitment Principles. If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles, and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, you should contact UKHSA Public Accountability Unit via email: Complaints@ukhsa.gov.uk If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission: Visit the Civil Service Commission website: https://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk