Research Assistant in Medical Statistics

The Medical Statistics group at the University of Plymouth is seeking to appoint a highly motivated graduate-level statistician to support the Down’s syndrome screening Quality Assurance Support Service (DQASS). This is an exciting chance to be part of a progressive and cutting-edge University in a beautiful location, where you can really make a difference.

The group has hosted DQASS since its inception in 2006.  Funded by the NHS Screening Quality Assurance Service, DQASS is a statistical support service for NHS Down's syndrome screening laboratories nationwide. It reports to the NHS Fetal Anomaly Screening Programme (FASP) and is supported by the UK National Screening Committee. The overall aim of the programme is to ensure all pregnant women have access to a Down’s syndrome screening programme that is uniform, equitable and adheres to national guidance, supported by a quality assurance framework. 

The primary function of this role is the statistical analysis, R programming, database handling (including SQL) and reporting of the data submitted by the screening laboratories to DQASS. Supported by senior staff, you will also deal with queries from the laboratories or FASP via email or over the phone. 

The Medical Statistics group’s wider research encompasses clinical trials and pragmatic health services research (e.g. randomised controlled trials of medicinal products and complex interventions) and biomedical and clinical studies (e.g. screening and diagnostics; longitudinal studies). Find out more: Medical Statistics. You will also have the opportunity to support and work with senior colleagues on other projects such as clinical trials, longitudinal studies and service contracts, as well as contributing to the development of research ideas and funding proposals. 

You will hold, or expect to graduate in 2023 with, a good first degree in Statistics or Mathematics and a strong working knowledge of R programming. Knowledge of databases and SQL are also desirable.  You must have excellent communication skills and be able to communicate complex concepts to non-statisticians.

The Medical Statistics group will encourage and support you in writing an application for an NIHR Pre-Doctoral Fellowship in order to undertake MSc studies alongside your work.

Please demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.

The successful candidate may be required to obtain an ATAS Certificate prior to this research being undertaken.

For an informal discussion please contact Amy Baker ([email protected] ) or Jade Chynoweth ([email protected] ) by email.

Closing date: 12 Midnight, Sunday 11th February 2024

Interviews are likely to take place week commencing Monday 26th February 2024.

This is a full-time, permanent position, working 37 hours a week.  We are open to applications for full or part time hours and can support various models of remote working. Please indicate your preference in your supporting statement.

We offer a competitive salary package and a generous pension and holiday scheme. We also offer a range of other benefits, including ongoing development opportunities.

The Faculty of Health holds two Silver and two Bronze Athena Swan Awards, which recognises commitment to supporting gender equality within higher education.

Staff appointed within the Faculty of Health may be able to join the NHS pension scheme subject to eligibility criteria.