Database Specialist/Data Manager

The MRC Epidemiology Unit is seeking to appoint a Database Specialist / Data Manager

The MRC Epidemiology Unit, based at the University of Cambridge, is seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Database Specialist/Data Manager to join the Nutrition Measurement Platform. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to scientific research at the forefront of public health and nutrition science.

The role focuses on supporting key projects, including the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) and Intake24, an open-source dietary assessment system. The successful candidate will develop, manage, and maintain research databases while ensuring the provision of high-quality data for government funders and partner organisations. This includes managing data from various sources, such as dietary assessments and laboratory results, maintaining rigorous data quality standards, and contributing to tool development and system enhancements for effective data capture and analysis.

Key responsibilities include database development, data cleaning, and processing using SQL, as well as supporting the development of tools for dietary assessment. The post holder will work closely with nutritionists, software developers, and other experts in a collaborative and supportive environment.

The NDNS provides critical data on the diet and nutrition of the UK population, underpinning public health policies. This role is an opportunity to contribute to leading nutrition research and surveillance that directly supports public health objectives.

The ideal candidate will have significant expertise in managing and developing databases, with strong proficiency in MS Access and SQL. Experience working with relational database engines such as MS SQL Server or PostgreSQL is essential. While not required, familiarity with programming or scripting languages, Linux/Unix environments, and APIs for data transfer is advantageous. Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage large, complex datasets are critical, as is the capacity to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

The MRC Epidemiology Unit is a department within the University of Cambridge's School of Clinical Medicine, situated at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Its mission is to study the genetic, developmental, and environmental factors that cause obesity, diabetes, and related metabolic disorders and to develop strategies for their prevention. The Unit benefits from large-scale epidemiological studies, detailed datasets, and highly experienced support teams that assist researchers in delivering world-class science.

Alongside a competitive salary, University staff enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including discounts on shopping, health care, financial services, and public transport, as well as access to defined benefit pension schemes and tax-efficient bicycle, car lease, and charity-giving schemes

Limited funding: The funds for this post are available for 5 years in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

The interview date for the role is: To be confirmed

Please quote reference SJ44653 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.