Mathematical Optimisation Research Officer

THE PROJECT

It is well reported that NHS Waiting lists and waiting times are increasing nationally – and this trend also applies to the East Suffolk and North East Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT). ESNEFT wants to address this issue by developing a multi-criteria optimisation model for their community services – with a focus initially on Musculo-skeletal (MSK) outpatient appointments.

This project will directly benefit how clinics are used, optimise the workload of the administrative and support staff, help to reduce the number of patients waiting more than 18 weeks and assist in clearing the back log of patients waiting more than 1 year.

This post is fixed term for 18 months and is based primarily at ESNEFT offices in Colchester with regular travel to the University of Essex.

DUTIES OF THE POST

The duties of the post will include:

• Undertaking extensive familiarisation with ESNEFT’s current models, processes and working practices, including conducting interviews with clinical and other operational staff.
• Processing, aggregating and organising extensive and diverse data for developing a multi-criteria optimisation model
• Developing and applying stochastic dynamic optimization approaches to optimise resource allocations based on a range of data.
• Embedding new techniques and technologies within ESNEFT and transferring knowledge to ESNEFT staff.
• Supporting the deployment and exploitation of the new technology within ESNEFT.
• Preparing academic papers.

 KEY REQUIREMENTS

• BSc or Professional experience in the fields of Operational Research, Computer Science, Data Analytics, Management Science or Mathematics.
• A relevant postgraduate level degree, or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of optimization, mathematical modelling, reinforcement learning/dynamic programming and metaheuristics.
• Experience of programming using Python/MATLAB, familiar with optimisation tools e.g., CPLEX/Gurobi.
• Experience of working on a project to successful completion.
• Experience of developing and maintaining research resources used within a Department or wider user community external to the Department (examples include household surveys, databases, specialist equipment and infrastructure, software packages and computer models).
• Evidence of publications in recognised, reputable journals (and other media of similar standing) appropriate to career stage and discipline norms. 

LOCATION

Colchester Hospital

Turner Road

Colchester

CO4 5JL

With regular travel to:

The University of Essex

Wivenhoe Park

Colchester

CO4 3SQ

The job pack, which contains a full job description and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role plus more information relating to the post. We recommend you read this information carefully before making an application.  Applications should be made on-line, but if you would like advice or help in making an application, or need information in a different format, please contact [email protected]

Please use the 'Apply' button to read further information about this role including the full job description and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role. You will also find details of how to make your application here. Our website http://www.essex.ac.uk contains more information about the University of Essex. If you have a disability and would like information in a different format, please email [email protected] .