At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to conduct impactful behavioural research and support public health initiatives.
- Company: UK Health Security Agency, dedicated to protecting public health and safety.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values diversity and promotes career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in health security while developing your skills in behavioural science.
- Qualifications: Degree in behavioural/social sciences; experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
The predicted salary is between 44550 - 54450 £ per year.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) prevents, prepares for and responds to infectious diseases, and environmental hazards, to keep all our communities safe, save lives and protect livelihoods. We provide scientific and operational leadership, working with local, national and international partners to protect the public’s health and build the nation’s health security capability.
We are seeking a Behavioural Scientist who will work 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). They will support the BSIU in delivering behavioural and social science expertise to inform UKHSA's health protection and health security priorities. Specifically, this Behavioural Scientist role will provide support to the BSIU Behavioural Science Team Leaders to provide robust, expert advice and guidance to internal and external stakeholders on all matters relating to behavioural and social science in support of the all-hazards activities of the organisation.
The BSIU also works 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 postholder to work as part of an integrated team with multidisciplinary stakeholders.
The Behavioural Scientist will join a team designing/conducting/evaluating applied behavioural research projects using a range of qualitative/quantitative methodologies including rapid research and community engagement activities during public health incidents/outbreaks. They will support the analysis and interpretation of data, undertake evidence reviews and literature syntheses, and provide timely, evidence-based advice to support operational/strategic decision-making.
The BSIU also designs and delivers behavioural and communication-based interventions informed by research findings, community insights and established behavioural science frameworks. They will lead or contribute to projects, prepare high-quality reports, presentations/publications and ensure all work is delivered to robust scientific and professional standards. The role will require the development and maintenance of effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders including colleagues across UKHSA/government departments/local authorities/academic partners and other external organisations. They will facilitate collaboration, support stakeholder engagement activities, and help identify opportunities to strengthen partnerships and maximise the impact of behavioural science across the organisation.
Essential Criteria:
- First Degree in the behavioural or social science (e.g. psychology, anthropology, sociology, behavioural economics etc.)
- PhD in the behavioural sciences (e.g. psychology, anthropology, sociology, behavioural economics etc.); or MSc and equivalent relevant experience; or substantial relevant experience
- Experience in qualitative research methods in the behavioural/social sciences (e.g. thematic analysis of qualitative research data using Nvivo or other software)
- Quantitative research experience in behavioural/social science (e.g. multivariate statistical analysis)
- Experience in creating formal reports and scientific publications
- Effective verbal, written and presentation communication skills; capable of constructing and delivering clear messages accurately for a range of audiences
- Proven ability to problem solve whilst working in an unpredictable environment, often under pressure and to tight timescales
Desirable Criteria:
- Ability to work collaboratively across teams, disciplines and organisations demonstrating respect and consideration for the role/skill(s) of others
- Proficiency in the application of quantitative and qualitative research methods in a health research context
- Excellent planning and prioritisation skills and ability to manage competing demands
- Experience of internet-based search technology for behavioural and social science research, and of conducting bibliographic searching and systematic reviews
Working for our organisation, 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.
Locations
Behavioural Scientist in Birmingham, Chilton, Leeds employer: UK Health Security Agency
At UKHSA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values innovation and professional growth. As a Lead Cyber Security Architect, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on public health security while enjoying competitive salaries, including a market pay supplement, and the flexibility of remote work. Our commitment to employee development ensures that you will continuously enhance your skills in a supportive environment dedicated to safeguarding national services.
