Research Associate Health Data Science

Salary: £33,966 to £44,263 per annumNewcastle University is a great place to work, with excellent . We have a generous holiday package; plus the opportunity to buy more, great pension schemes and a number of health and wellbeing initiatives to support you.Closing Date: 23 June 2024The RoleWe are inviting applications for a Research Associate to join the Data Science & AI Programme at the NIHR Innovation Observatory (IO), based at Newcastle University. The IO, supported by £27M of NIHR funding, integrates the expertise of horizon scanning analysts, evidence synthesis researchers and data scientists into a cohesive hub focused on observing and reporting on health innovation.In this role, your primary focus will be on researching and developing advanced data-driven, AI tools. You will play a key role in enhancing the capabilities of our in-house developed OpenScan platform, leveraging generative AI and large language models (LLMs) to process and analyse diverse Health Data. The role requires a blend of cutting-edge research and practical application, ensuring that the tools developed are robust, efficient and impactful.This post is available fixed term until 31 March 2026 in the first instance.For informal queries, please contact Dr Christopher Marshall at the following email address:As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of . These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.Key Accountabilities

• Research and develop AI-based Data Science tools, focusing on generative AI and LLMs to support the IO’s research activities
• Apply your research to enhance the data ingestion pipeline and application layers of OpenScan, improving data crawling, extraction and analysis capabilities
• Manage and execute research projects within agreed timelines, ensuring that project milestones are met to a high standard
• Oversee the collection, processing, and management of structured and unstructured Health Data, ensuring data integrity and accessibility
• Work closely with cross-functional teams across the IO, providing the necessary tools and support to other researchers
• Maintain clear documentation and communicate technical progress effectively to both technical and non-technical colleagues and stakeholders
• Develop and deliver training sessions on AI tools and methods, enhancing the skillset of colleagues and fostering a collaborative learning environment
• Mentor junior researchers and provide guidance on best research practices in AI and Data Science
• Prepare and publish research articles, and present findings and national and international conferences and seminars
• Build and nurture relationships with internal and external stakeholders, participating in networks to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration
• Represent the IO at external meetings and seminars, promoting our work

The PersonEssential Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• A PhD or equivalent professional expertise in a relevant filed such as Data Science, computer science, or software engineering
• Proven experience with AI methods, including machine learning, data mining, and natural language processing
• Strong proficiency in Python programming
• Strong background in data management, curation, linkage, and analysis of large heterogeneous datasets
• A record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at academic conferences
• Excellent analytical, problem solving and critical thinking skills

Desirable

• Familiarity with healthcare regulatory and market access processes

Attributes and Behaviour

• Ability work independently and collaboratively within a team
• Strong organizational, communication and interpersonal skills
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Self-motivated, proactive, and enthusiastic about research
• Ability to build effective relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Commitment to high-quality research and continuous improvement

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Data Science or a related discipline

Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.At Newcastle University we hold a silver award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality. We also hold a Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC. We are a employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme.In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe.Requisition ID: 27280