Job Summary
THIS POST IS FIXED TERM FOR 19 MONTHS DUE TO FUNDING.
We a looking for an Advanced Epidemiological Data Scientist to join Public Health Wales’ the Engineering, Data Science and Genomic Epidemiology (EDGE) specialty group in Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre (CDSC). The exciting opportunity is ideal for data scientists with a passion for infectious disease modelling and surveillance. You will be contributing to the development of infectious disease modelling and enhancing analytical pipelines to transform our existing data infrastructure to cloud platforms.
Main duties of the job
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. 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 ability to speak Welsh is desirable for this post; Welsh and/or English speakers are equally welcome to apply.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- Degree in a scientific, computing or health related subject
- Masters qualification or equivalent experience acquired in a data-related field
Desirable
- A qualification or demonstrable training/experience in data science
Experience
Essential
- Substantial post-graduate experience of relevant scientific work
- Experience of working with large and complex databases
- Understanding of current scientific and/or epidemiological advances
- Experience of training other staff groups
Desirable
- Experience of surveillance and epidemiology
- Demonstrable experience of working within a public health setting
Skills
Essential
- Advanced data science and statistical methods
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to document and communicate clearly and succinctly.
- Advanced skills in statistical and database software (Stata, MS Access, R) to manage and analyse complex data
Desirable
- Ability to speak Welsh or willingness to learn
Knowledge
Essential
- Specialist knowledge of data science methods
- Knowledge of epidemiological principles and their application to communicable disease surveillance and control
Desirable
- Knowledge of Public Health Wales
- Knowledge and experience of the architecture and practice of large-scale data management
Personable Attributes
Essential
- Ability to work to deadlines and under pressure.
- Flexible approach and commitment to apply skills in support of clinical/scientific priorities
- Proven track record as a team player
- Enthusiastic approach with excellent planning and organisational skills
- Negotiation and diplomacy skills to work with a wide range of staff
Other
Essential
- Ability to foster and maintain good working relationships with administrative staff, scientific staff and health professionals at all levels
- Commitment to CPD within Public Health competency frameworks
- Prepared to travel
Desirable
- Evidence of continuing professional Development
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
Closing Date: 22 February 2026
