Local Authority Research Practitioner

Job summary We are looking to appoint a highly skilled and motivated Local Authority Research Practitioner to join our dynamic Public Health team.
This role will support the Head of Research, Insight, and Data in developing and implementing a comprehensive research governance framework across the council, focusing on building research capacity, facilitating strategic collaborations, and securing external funding to advance public health initiatives.
The successful candidate will be responsible for fostering a research-active culture within the council, leading collaborative research projects, and ensuring that evidence-based practices are at the core of our public health decision-making.
You will work closely with higher education institutions, public health networks, NHS partners, and community organisations to drive research that addresses local health priorities and informs public policy.
Main duties of the job Support the development and implementation of a research governance framework across the council, with associated training and capacity-building initiatives.
Lead strategic collaborations with academic institutions, public health networks, voluntary sector organisations, and NHS partners to identify and secure external funding for public health research projects.
Design and deliver targeted training programs to build research skills among council staff and promote a culture of continuous learning and development.
Facilitate the creation of local communities of practice that bring together NHS, local authority, and academic teams to support research and evaluation.
Oversee the monitoring and evaluation of research projects, ensuring that outcomes are effectively communicated and inform future public health strategies.
Lead and support the development and submission of significant research proposals to external funders, positioning the council for future grant opportunities.
Present research findings at national, regional, or international levels to raise the council's research profile The role is part funded by the NIHR RSS Specialist Centre for Public Health, and the postholder will be expected to actively promote, support and contribute to the activity of the NHR RSS Specialist Centre for Public Health, alongside their work within the Council About us Our Council Our vision is to make a difference to our communities and our environment and we would love you to join us in our mission!
All of our employees, whatever their job, contribute greatly to delivering services to local people - either directly, or by supporting colleagues.
We celebrate diversity and are continuously striving for our residents to enjoy fulfilling prosperous and healthy lives.
What we offer We offer a supportive place to grow and develop your career with a real opportunity for your input to be valued and heard.
Ambition and innovation will be required now more than ever and you will join a friendly and collaborative environment where you are encouraged to thrive.
Annual increments, where applicable, are usually payable on 1st April each year, subject to six months service in the post, until the maximum spinal column point of the level has been reached.
The payment of annual increments is not automatic and is subject to satisfactory performance as assessed by your Director.
Alongside a competitive salary, we provide: - 26 days annual leave -not including Bank holidays, rising to 30 days between 2 - 5 years' service and 33 days after 5 years' service.
- The Local Government Pension Scheme Job description Job responsibilities Pay Level: 7 Contract Type: 2 Year Fixed Term Contract Working Hours: 37 per Week The closing date for applications is midnight on: Monday 25th November 2024 What you'll be doing: We are looking to appoint a highly skilled and motivated Local Authority Research Practitioner to join our dynamic Public Health team.
This role will support the Head of Research, Insight, and Data in developing and implementing a comprehensive research governance framework across the council, focusing on building research capacity, facilitating strategic collaborations, and securing external funding to advance public health initiatives.
The successful candidate will be responsible for fostering a research-active culture within the council, leading collaborative research projects, and ensuring that evidence-based practices are at the core of our public health decision-making.
You will work closely with higher education institutions, public health networks, NHS partners, and community organisations to drive research that addresses local health priorities and informs public policy.
Our Council: Our vision is to make a difference to our communities and our environment and we would love you to join us in our mission!
All of our employees, whatever their job, contribute greatly to delivering services to local people - either directly, or by supporting colleagues.
We celebrate diversity and are continuously striving for our residents to enjoy fulfilling prosperous and healthy lives.
What we offer: We offer a supportive place to grow and develop your career with a real opportunity for your input to be valued and heard.
Ambition and innovation will be required now more than ever and you will join a friendly and collaborative environment where you are encouraged to thrive.
Annual increments, where applicable, are usually payable on 1st April each year, subject to six months service in the post, until the maximum spinal column point of the level has been reached.
The payment of annual increments is not automatic and is subject to satisfactory performance as assessed by your Director.
Alongside a competitive salary, we provide: 26 days annual leave (not including Bank holidays), rising to 30 days between 2 - 5 years' service and 33 days after 5 years' service.
The Local Government Pension Scheme We offer a wider range of great benefits including: Flexible and hybrid working options to promote work-life balance Our commitment to equality and diversity through a range of employee networks Wellbeing initiatives Tax - free childcare and childcare services Season loan ticket - to help with the cost of your rail / bus journey to & from work.
Right to Work: All applicants must have a valid right to work in the UK.
If you require sponsorship, please contact R before submitting an application.
Interested?
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.
If appointed, all posts will be subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks.
Slough Borough Council is an inclusive employer and we encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.
We select staff on merit and we foster a workforce where people are valued, and represents the local communities that we serve.
Slough Borough Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer.
We want our application process to be open and accessible.
If you wish to make your application in an alternative format, please email R quoting the job reference – our Accessibility Statement has more information.
How to Apply: Please click on the apply button below to submit your application.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Join our team at Slough Borough Council and help accelerate our journey of transformation and growth!
The Council reserves the right to close adverts early should we receive a number of suitable applications.
Person Specification Skills Essential Proven experience in public health research, with a strong understanding of research governance, ethical frameworks, and best practices.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build partnerships and engage with diverse stakeholders, including academic institutions, community groups, and healthcare organisations.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to interpret data, evaluate research outcomes, and develop evidence-based strategies.
Demonstrated ability to secure external funding through successful grant writing and knowledge of funding bodies like NIHR and the Welcome Trust.
Proficiency in project management, with the ability to lead research initiatives, manage timelines, and coordinate resources effectively.
A Master's degree in Public Health, Research Methods, or a related field or working towards this qualification is essential.
Desirable Experience in securing external funding for research