Epidemiological Data Scientist (Advanced)

Job summary Health Protection Division provides information and advice and takes action to protect people in Wales from communicable disease and environmental hazards.
Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre (CDSC) is the epidemiology and surveillance branch of Health Protection Division.
This is a senior role that will develop the use of data science techniques to support the work of CDSC.
The postholder will develop mathematical and epidemiological models which simulate the spread of infectious diseases.
The post holder will develop methods and processes to maintain existing surveillance systems and set up new ones.
This will include the management, maintenance and quality improvement of data flows to CDSC The post holder will work with senior epidemiologists to implement emerging methods in data science such as data linkage and machine learning and explore the possibilities of artificial intelligence.
The post holder will also work closely with microbiologists to develop new surveillance methods using the results of whole genome sequencing of pathogens, and will also have a role in supporting field epidemiology activities.
Main duties of the job The post-holder will use highly developed skills in data science, health informatics and project management to define, interpret and provide solutions to complex public health problems.
This will involve framing problems in epidemiological terms, analysing complex data sets, ensuring outputs from projects are delivered to time and reporting findings to stakeholders, including the public, health professionals within Public Health Wales, the NHS, Health Boards and Welsh Government.
The post holder will have a role in developing and delivering training on a variety of topics.
To do this the post-holder will be required to liaise with individuals from varied backgrounds in a range of organisations.
The post holder may be required to line manage and/or co-ordinate work of junior team members.
They will be required to train staff, supervise or mentor junior staff and demonstrate specific tasks or work as required to others.
The post holder will contribute to Public Health Wales's Research Strategy by undertaking research & development activities which may include the preparation of applications for funding.
They will be expected to work within any budgets set by the department but will be expected to make recommendations on the most appropriate allocation of resource.
About us We are Public Health Wales - the national public health organisation for Wales.
Our purpose is 'working together for a healthier Wales'.
We exist to help all people in Wales live longer, healthier lives.
With our partners, we aim to increase healthy life expectancy, improve health and well-being, and reduce inequalities for everyone in Wales, now and for future generations.
Together, our teams work to prevent disease, protect health, and provide leadership, specialist services and public health expertise.
We are the main source of public health information, research and innovation in Wales.
Never more has public health been so important as we come through the Coronavirus pandemic, face the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis and tackle and prevent the harmful effects of climate change.
Our organisation is guided by our Values, 'Working together, with trust and respect, to make a difference'.
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that values equality, diversity and inclusion.
We welcome applications which represent the rich diversity of the communities we serve and from those wishing to work part time or on a job share basis.
To find out more about working for us and the benefits we offer please visit For guidance on the application process, please visit Job description Job responsibilities You will be able to find a full Job description and Person Specification attached within the supporting documents or please click Apply now to view in Trac.
The ability to speak Welsh is desirable for this post; Welsh and/or English speakers are equally welcome to apply.
Person Specification Qualifications Essential oDegree in a scientific, computing or health related subject Masters qualification or equivalent experience acquired in a data-related field Desirable oA qualification or demonstrable training/experience in data science Experience Essential oSubstantial post-graduate experience of relevant scientific work oExperience of working with large and complex databases oUnderstanding of current scientific and/or epidemiological advances oExperience of training other staff groups Desirable Experience of surveillance and epidemiology Demonstrable experience of working within a public health setting Skills Essential oAdvanced data science and statistical methods oEffective oral and written communication skills.
oAbility to document and communicate clearly and succinctly.
oAdvanced skills in statistical and database software (Stata, MS Access, R) to manage and analyse complex data oExcellent computer literacy, including advanced skills in Microsoft Office applications oAbility to project manage, coordinate teams and problem solve oProfessional judgments on methods and interpretation Desirable oAbility to speak Welsh or willingness to learn oRegression and time series analysis oMapping oAbility to manage data from whole genome sequencing Knowledge Essential oSpecialist knowledge of data science methods oKnowledge of epidemiological principles and their application to communicable disease surveillance and control oA good understanding of healthcare systems in Wales oAwareness of policies and procedures relating to dealing with confidential data Desirable oKnowledge of Public Health Wales oKnowledge and experience of the architecture and practice of large-scale data management oA knowledge of automating routine analysis through VBA programming, R markdown, or STATA ) PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES (Demonstrable) Essential oAbility to work to deadlines and under pressure.
oFlexible approach and commitment to apply skills in support of clinical/scientific priorities oProven track record as a team player oEnthusiastic approach with excellent planning and organisational skills oNegotiation and diplomacy skills to work with a wide range of staff oAbility to work on own initiative oGood time-keeping.
oRespect confidentiality.
oWillingness to learn and develop skills.
Desirable oAbility to work in challenging or different circumstances oAbility to speak Welsh Other Essential oAbility to foster and maintain good working relationships with administrative staff, scientific staff and health professionals at all levels oCommitment to CPD within Public Health competency frameworks oPrepared to travel Desirable oEvidence of continuing professional Development