Research Associate (Fixed Term)

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious researcher to join an internationally renowned research Unit and a team carrying out high profile work in the field of intervention evaluation. 

The post-holder will work within the Population Health Them at the MRC Biostatistics Unit (MRC-BSU). 

The project, funded by an MRC Career Development Award, aims to develop generic methods for Bayesian causal inference using time-series observational data. Potential directions for research include the modelling of causal effect heterogeneity, the use of geographical locations of sampling units to improve statistical efficiency and the relaxing the no-interference and no-treatment-reversal assumptions made by most existing approaches. These methodological challenges are motivated by substantive problems, including the evaluation of ongoing efforts to eliminate the Hepatitis C virus, non-pharmaceutical interventions against COVID-19, and dietary health interventions.  

The successful candidate will have, or will be close to submitting, a PhD in statistics or similar quantitative discipline. Research experience in Bayesian statistics is essential, especially in hierarchical modelling and computational methods for posterior inference. Experience in statistical programming, an ability to produce high-quality academic writing, good communication skills and an enthusiasm for collaborating with non-statistical scientists are also essential. Background in causal inference and non-linear (e.g. Gaussian process) modelling is highly advantageous. The successful candidate will be supported in their career development with formal courses and on-the-job training.

The MRC Biostatistics Unit is one of Europe's leading biostatistics research institutions. Our focus is to deliver new analytical and computational strategies based on sound statistical principles for the challenging tasks facing biomedicine and public health. We are situated on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, one of the world's most vibrant centres of biomedical research, which includes the University of Cambridge's Clinical School, two major hospitals, the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, and the world headquarters of Astra Zeneca. 

The Unit is actively seeking to increase diversity among its staff, including promoting an equitable representation of men and women. The Unit therefore especially encourages applications from women, from minority ethnic groups and from those with non-standard career paths. Appointment will be made on merit. 

The Biostatistics Unit is committed to supporting hybrid working for all staff, but we do expect that staff will work from the office on a regular basis to help integration and to build our fantastic scientific community. Working entirely from the office is possible. 

We welcome applications from those wishing to work part-time. 

Starting date is flexible but preferably no later than September 2025. 

This vacancy is being studied as part of the Action Research on Research Culture project (ARRC) (https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/research/research-projects/research-culture/). The ARRC team are investigating the effects of CV format on shortlisting. If you consent to take part in the study the ARRC team will use information from the shortlisting process to understand the impact of different CV formats. The recruiting academic will not be told whether you have joined the study so your choice cannot influence the decision on who to appoint. Further details can be found in the 'Further particulars' document. If you have questions about the ARRC project, please contact: arrcproject@admin.cam.ac.uk 

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

Applicants must have (or be close to obtaining) a PhD.  

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £34,132) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award. 

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and 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 University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.