Behavioural Scientist
UK Health Security Agency
Birmingham/Leeds/Liverpool/London/Porton/Chilton/Colindale, E14 4PUView on map(opens Google Maps in a new tab)
Salary
£41,983 to £52,113
Contract
Fixed-Term
Hours
Not specified
Closing date
2 October 2026
4 days leftJob description
We are seeking a Behavioural Scientist who will work as part of the Behavioural Science and Insights Unit (BSIU), an all-hazards, responsive team with...
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.
The above list is not exhaustive.
- Support the development of key relationships with a wide range of individuals and stakeholders attending meetings, networks etc. as appropriate to role
- Establish and maintain links and collaborations within and outside UKHSA as necessary to benefit the project and/or Department
- Develop, implement and maintain a strategy for prioritising our work with those stakeholders who we rely on to achieve shared goals
- Deal with at times, challenging and/or conflicting subject matter problems in day-to-day workload referring/escalating to line management as appropriate
- Act as a role model adhering to team professional standards
- Support the development of policies and protocols for use within the BSIU/department
- Contribute to specified quality improvement and governance initiatives as agreed
- Support and contribute to the development of joint plans and system wide priorities for public health action or improvement
- Support/lead projects and support defined areas of work as agreed with line manager
- Hold delegated responsibility for designated budget in respect of the delivery of appropriate project
- To take lead responsibility for the supervision and training of junior staff allocated to the project team
The above is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. You will carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required by your line manager.
The job description and person specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of the organisation.
- 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
- 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
Stage 1: Application & Sift (Competency-based)
At sift stage you will be assessed against the 7 Essential Criteria listed in this job advert. You will be required to complete:
- An Application Form (Employer/Activity history section on the application)
- A 1000 word Supporting Statement - do not exceed 1000 words as we will not consider any words over this amount
This should outline how your skills, abilities, experience and knowledge provide evidence of your suitability for the role. You will receive a joint score for your Application Form and Supporting Statement.
The application form is the kind of information you would put into your CV please note you will not be able to upload or email us your CV. Please complete the Application Form in as much detail as possible.
In the event of a large number of applications, we may longlist into 3 piles of:
- Meets all Essential Criteria
- Meets some Essential Criteria
- Meets no Essential Criteria
Only 'Meets all Essential Criteria' will progress to Shortlisting.
In the event of a large number of applications, we may conduct an initial sift on the following Essential Criteria:
- 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)
Desirable criteria may be used in the event of a large number of applications/successful candidates.
If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview. Please note feedback will not be provided at this stage.
Stage 2: Interview (Competency-based)
You will be invited to a single remote interview, via MS Teams.Interview date(s) to be confirmed.
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. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.
Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers
Application Form & Supporting Statement
Essential: - Application Form & Supporting Statement
Essential Criteria
Essential: - Questions on Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge, Experience, Skills and Abilities
Essential: - Presentation relating to your research experience and skills
How to apply
Applications are handled entirely by the employer on the original advert. We do not collect CVs, supporting statements or application data.
Provenance
Source
NHS Jobs
First seen
14 September 2026
Last checked
16 September 2026
Salary, closing date and description are taken from the employer's advert. The original advert always takes precedence.
About the employer
NHS organisation
This listing was structured from NHS Jobs. Vacancy details and the application process remain the responsibility of the original source.
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