This role will involve working as part of the Behavioural Science and Insights Unit (BSIU), an all-hazards, responsive team within the Science Group at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Specifically, this Behavioural Scientist role will contribute to the research programme of the Health Protection Research Units (HPRU). The post holders will be expected to conduct applied research and evaluation projects, use qualitative and quantitative methodologies, and apply theoretical models and frameworks from the behavioural sciences. The BSIU also work in support of the public health incident and emergency response functions of the organisation and will play a role in supporting UKHSA’s role as a Category 1 response organisation, through the provision of rapid behavioural science-related evidence synthesis and advice. This role will therefore require expertise in the behavioural and social sciences and will require the post holder to work as part of an integrated team with multidisciplinary stakeholders. This post may require security clearance.
The UKHSA Behavioural Science and Insights Unit (BSIU), provides subject matter expertise and leadership in the application of behavioural science to health protection and security. The BSIU provides expert advice and undertakes a range of research activities to support UKHSA teams and external partners to develop and evaluate evidence informed advice, guidance, behavioural interventions, and risk communication strategies.
We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.
UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.
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Implement and utilise a range of research methods/statistical analyses/techniques in support of all behavioural and social science-related activities to underpin UKHSA’s capability to provide advice on environmental change and health.
Work with other members of the team to identify, evaluate and adapt new research methodologies where necessary and appropriate, and to ensure that the projects operate to a high scientific standard using current methods.
Use relevant methodologies to rapidly identify and synthesise relevant theory and research to provide timely response to queries with a behavioural science, environmental change and health focus.
Support day to day management of engagement with internal and external stakeholders, including across UKHSA, other Government Departments, Local Authorities, Academic partners, and other relevant stakeholders.
Lead and contribute to the delivery of the HPRU agreed research programme which will underpin UKHSA’s capability to provide scientific advice on environmental change and health. in collaboration with the LSHTM, UCL and the Met Office
Design and deliver behavioural and communication-based interventions (informed by community engagement, rapid research and appropriate theoretical approaches), to assist with the all-hazards work of UKHSA, including the management of outbreaks and other public health incidents.
Lead on specific project(s) to contribute to the development, delivery, and expansion of UKHSA’s research programme on climate and environmental change and health. This will involve identifying, evaluating and adapting new research methodologies where appropriate and to ensure that the project operates to a high scientific standard using current methods.
To provide reports through analysis of data using software and databases as necessary, to meet project targets and to lead on preparation of presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
Undertake work in accordance with UKHSA’s Health and Safety policies and procedures and to work within any Quality Systems that are applicable to the site.
In line with other responsibilities, perform any other tasks assigned or objectives set by the line manager commensurate with the grade.
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary.