Research Associate (Fixed Term)

This position is to work with Dr Sofia Villar within the Efficient Study Design (ESD) research theme of the MRC Biostatistics Unit (BSU). The post-holder will work on the development of statistical inferential methods to use after a response-adaptive (randomized or deterministic) allocation of patients in clinical trials, and the development of software to implement and compare their use for a broad range of trial designs and analysis options via simulations. The post-holder will also have an opportunity to support implementation of novel adaptive designs in practice and will have opportunities to work closely with Dr. David Robertson and Prof. Thomas Jaki.

The job will primarily involve the development of statistical methodology for response-adaptive randomised clinical trials under the guidance of the line manager. It is expected that the post-holder will take a lead on the direction of the project after the initial period.

Specific duties will include:

• To develop novel statistical methods for the analysis of response-adaptive clinical trials.

• To develop open-source software suitable for the implementation of new methods and evaluation of trial design options by simulations;

• To support the implementation of adaptive methods in clinical trials.

• To present scientific work at conferences and internal and external seminars.

• To write scientific papers, and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.

Candidates for Research Associate position will have a PhD in Statistics, or a relevant subject with a strong fundamental quantitative component (e.g. Mathematics, Probability and Computer Science). We encourage applications from candidates with various quantitative backgrounds and willing to establish/develop their expertise in developing novel statistical methods with applications to clinical trials.

The starting date for the post is the 1st of September 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The Unit is 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.

Our research group (ESD) is a dynamic group of researchers with different experience levels and from different backgrounds. We regularly meet to discuss relevant research and we provide multiple opportunities for training, mentoring and career support.

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.

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

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

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 £31,411) 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.

Informal enquires can be addressed to Dr Sofia Villar (sofia.villar@mrc-bsu.cam.ac.uk).

Closing date for applications is: June 20th 2023 and interviews will be arranged soon after.

Please quote reference SL36677 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.