At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful public health research using cutting-edge data and methodologies.
- Company: Join the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, a leader in health regulation.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of health research and make a real difference in public health.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent in epidemiology or medical statistics with strong research publishing track record.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career advancement opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for a CPRD FTC Senior Researcher to join our Clinical Practice Research Datalink team in the Safety and Surveillance group. This is a full-time opportunity, on a fixed-term contract until 23 November 2027. The role will be based in 10 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf London, E14 4PU. This role can only be worked in the UK and not overseas. Government departments and agencies are moving towards a minimum 60% attendance in office sites. We are implementing a flexible, hybrid way of working, with a minimum of 4 days per month on site for collaboration with partners and stakeholders. Attendance on site is driven by business needs and can flex up to 8 days a month. Some roles may require more on-site time. Remote working is potentially available for some roles; discuss with the recruiting manager before accepting an appointment.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency safeguards health through regulation of medicines and medical devices, underpinned by science and research. The Safety and Surveillance Group brings together devices and medicines safety expertise with enforcement capabilities, supported by data and evidence generation capabilities and the Safety Connect System. Part of the Safety and Surveillance group, the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), with support from the NIHR, is the UK’s preeminent research service providing access to anonymised NHS data for research. CPRD supports high quality observational research and has developed services based on real world data to support clinical trials and interventional studies.
The CPRD Senior Researcher role offers an opportunity to shape the UK Government’s premier data-driven research service. We seek a motivated, enthusiastic individual to participate in and support the delivery of public health research. The Senior Researcher will apply epidemiological, statistical and leadership expertise to a range of studies to develop and deliver CPRD research services. Responsibilities include leadership of commissioned research; characterising, validating, and integrating new data sources; monitoring data quality; developing methodologies and algorithms; and providing consultancy to clients using CPRD data and services. The role will also be exposed to novel methods for integrating observational and real-world interventional studies and developing technical solutions for research.
Key Responsibilities- Develop research services
- Deliver research studies
- Promote CPRD externally and support CPRD clients
- People management
Our Successful Candidate Will Have The Following:
- A PhD, or equivalent experience, in epidemiology, medical statistics, or a related discipline with a track record in publishing epidemiological research analysing large electronic health records databases.
- Ability to ensure timely, high-quality outcomes through appropriate resource allocation and performance management.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills with experience presenting research, writing study protocols, and drafting strategic papers and manuscripts for publication.
- Experience in data characterisation and developing tools to add value to or analyse complex datasets.
- Knowledge of regulation and governance of using electronic health records for research within English and devolved administrations’ legal, ethical and governance environments.
Method of assessment: A=Application, I=Interview, T=Test
Behaviour Criteria- Delivering at Pace (A, I, T)
- Working Together (A, I)
- Track record in publishing epidemiological research analysing large electronic health records databases. (A, I)
- Experience in data characterisation and developing tools to add value to, or analyse, complex datasets. (A, I)
- Excellent oral and written communication skills with experience in presenting research, writing study protocols, and drafting strategic papers and manuscripts for publication. (A, I)
- PhD, or equivalent experience, in epidemiology, medical statistics or a related discipline. (A, I, T)
- Excellent knowledge of epidemiological and statistical techniques and study design. (A, I, T)
- Understanding of challenges in using electronic health records in public health research, including the use of R and/or Stata; familiarity with primary care data. (A, I, T)
- Knowledge of regulation and governance of using electronic health records for research within English and devolved administrations’ environments. (I, T)
- Decisive (I)
- Motivator (I)
If you would like to find out more about this opportunity, please read our Job Description and Person Specification.
The Selection Process: We use the Civil Service Success Profiles to assess candidates. Online application, tests, and interviews may be used. Ensure all application questions are completed in full; CVs are not reviewed for this process.
Online application form with questions based on Behaviour, Experience and Technical Success Profiles. Test; further information provided when you reach this stage. Interview based on Behaviour, Experience, Technical and Strengths profiles.
Closing date: 9 February 2026. Shortlisting and interview dates are provided by the recruitment team. Applicants will be notified of outcomes in due course.
For any questions, contact careers@mhra.gov.uk.
Senior Researcher employer: Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
Contact Detail:
Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Researcher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those already working at the MHRA or similar organisations. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the CPRD's work. Familiarise yourself with their recent studies and methodologies. Showing that you know your stuff will impress the hiring team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since the role requires excellent oral and written abilities, consider doing mock interviews or presentations. This will help you articulate your experience confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at MHRA.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Researcher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Senior Researcher role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Research Skills: Since this role is all about research, don’t hold back! Share specific examples of your past work in epidemiology or medical statistics, especially any publications or projects involving large datasets. We want to see your expertise shine!
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure your communication skills come through. Remember, we value excellent written communication!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your epidemiological and statistical techniques. Be ready to discuss your experience with large electronic health records databases and how you've published research in this area. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent oral and written communication skills are a must, prepare to present your past research clearly and concisely. Think about how you can explain complex methodologies or findings in a way that’s easy to understand. Practising your pitch can really help!
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the regulations and governance surrounding the use of electronic health records for research. Being able to discuss these aspects confidently will demonstrate your awareness of the legal and ethical considerations in public health research.
✨Be Ready to Lead
As a Senior Researcher, leadership is key. Prepare examples of how you've managed projects or teams in the past. Highlight your ability to allocate resources effectively and ensure high-quality outcomes. This will show that you’re ready to take on the responsibilities of the role.
