Epidemiology and Information Systems Specialist

Job Description

The Field Services Division (FS) was established to provide a national comprehensive service which is geographically dispersed and integrates epidemiological, microbiological, infectious diseases and data sciences capacity and skills delivering surveillanceand outbreak investigations consistently of the highest quality.FS provides an effector arm for UKHSA, supporting the translation of evidence into practice as well as having a role in strengthening surveillance through closer links with the NHS and other partners. It also provides valuable links to academic centres andeffective leadership and coordination of the UKHSA applied epidemiology training function.Through the application of specialist skills, the post holder will undertake complex tasks with regards to database development and management, using modern tools and methodologies.The role will involve supporting outbreaks and epidemiological investigations through the creation and administration of outbreak databases and through providing advice and expertise on data sources and capture.Location23 Stephenson, Birmingham B2 4BH or Seaton House, City Link, Nottingham NG2 4LA / With Hybrid WorkingResponsibilities section: The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties:

• Advise on data availability and capture during outbreaks and create and administer outbreak databases

Surveillance

• Support the development and operational testing of, and implement, new surveillance systems and provide ongoing support and training as required
• Maintain and improve existing surveillance databases, validating the quality of surveillance data including the development and use of automated routines and through audit
• Produce and update Standard Operating Procedures

Software skills

• Develop solutions and apply specialist skills using common database/mapping/web tools such as ArcGIS, SQL, SharePoint etc.
• Undertake more complex analytical tasks using common software packages to support data extractions, analysis and validation, including programming and using web-based technologies

Teaching

• Teach colleagues on surveillance systems and database management

Quality and Governance

• Ensure that data transfer, extraction and storage of data are appropriate and secure
• Identify data quality issues and implement data validation and correction solutions based on guidance from senior staff and policy

Project management

• Contribute to and ensure the delivery of project outcomes such as the implementation of new systems and processes

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.Essential Criteria:It is important through your application and Statement of Suitability of 1000 words that you give evidence and examples of proven experience of each of the following criteria:Essential

• Educated to degree level in public health or information science/systems or equivalent experience
• Knowledge and experience of data capture mechanisms and data linkage
• Understanding of and experience in data validation and quality assurance through audit
• Experience in creating, supporting and maintaining systems and databases
• Proficient in a common database/mapping/web tools such as SQL, GIS, SharePoint etc. including experience of developing solutions
• Experience of contributing to and ensuring the successful delivery of project relating to information systems
• Understand information governance including data protection and confidentiality requirements
• Able to maintain effective relationships with co-workers and key stakeholders and work in a multidisciplinary team

Desirable

• Experience in the production of Standard Operating Procedures
• Skills to undertake more complex analytical tasks using common software packages to support data extractions, analysis and validation, including programming