UK Health Security Agency

Research Assistant

The closing date is 06 January 2026

Job summary

The Primary Care and Interventions Unit (PCIU) is a small research team based in Gloucester. It aims to prevent and improve the management of common infections in primary care through research, guidance, resource development and education of professionals, the general public and young people. We also work with GP practices, pharmacies, care homes, universities, schools, and the public to raise awareness about antibiotic resistance and preventing infection. Our work involves creating educational resources and implementation tools for healthcare professionals, the public, and schools.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Assistant to join the PCIU to support research, and educational projects within the TARGET workstreams. The post holder will be geographically based in Gloucester, although will be able to work from home part of the week. The successful applicant will enjoy a varied role, that will focus on the development and implementation of resources and training packages to improve antimicrobial stewardship in primary care settings.

Main duties of the job

This post is within the Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infection Division of UKHSA. The mission of the division is to protect people from healthcare-associated and antimicrobial resistant infections, through world-leading public health microbiology, outbreak response, surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship, modelling, research and interventions.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

  • To conduct and assist with the research undertaken in PCIU, covering infection prevention, antimicrobial use and intervention development and evaluation.
  • To develop protocols for research and development activities and communicate with research team as necessary to plan timelines for delivery e.g. by updating a project timeline or GANTT chart for the lifetime of the project.

About us

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

Details

Date posted

19 December 2025

Pay scheme

Other

Salary

£28,547 to £33,196 a year Per annum, pro rata

Contract

Fixed term

Duration

6 months

Working pattern

Full-time, Part-time, Job share, Flexible working

Reference number

919-SH-304962-EXT

Job locations

Gloucester

Bruton Way

Gloucester

GL1 1DQ


Job description

Job responsibilities

  • To implement and utilise a range of quantitative research methods/statistical analyses/techniques in support of all activities associated with research projects aiming to ensure project targets are met.
  • To implement and utilise a range of qualitative research methods and analysis techniques to undertake and analyse interviews and focus groups.
  • To apply behavioural science to the development of data collection tools, analysis and implications of research findings, including the development of interventions.
  • To correspond with ethics committees and submit ethics applications and local approvals.
  • To undertake needs assessments to inform the development of diagnostic or educational tools.
  • To assist or conduct data collection such as surveys, interviews and focus groups (face to face and telephone) in line with Caldicott guidelines and GDPR.
  • To conduct literature reviews of electronic databases and grey literature.
  • To create, manage and manipulate databases (Access/Excel/Endnote/Epidata) including data input; cleaning, coding validation and verification of data sets; and supplying appropriate raw data sets to statisticians.
  • To provide reports through descriptive analysis of data using software and databases as necessary, to meet project targets.
  • To disseminate research through exhibiting/presenting at conferences, events and workshops; preparing and publishing papers in peer-reviewed journals.
  • To assist with the updating, reviewing and administration of resources/tools and websites.
  • To organize meetings, participate, take minutes and follow up as delegated.
  • To undertake work in accordance with UKHSAs Health and Safety policies and procedures and to work within any Quality Systems that are applicable to the site.

Professional Development

  • To identify, discuss and action own professional performance and training / development needs with your line manager through appraisal / individual development plan. Attending internal / external training events
  • To participate in all mandatory training as required, i.e. fire safety, information governance and all other mandatory training.

It should be noted that the work of the division is of a sensitive nature and must not be communicated to other persons except where required for authorised purposes.

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 division and UKHSA.

Essential Criteria

  • Educated to MSc degree level or degree standard in microbiological sciences, public health and/or research or equivalent relevant experience at a similar level.
  • Degree standard level in microbiological sciences, public health and/or research or equivalent experience at a similar level.
  • Be required to undertake higher level/advanced training in research methodologies and/or project management e.g. a professional doctorate.
  • Professional/research experience in the field of public health, education, nursing, microbiology, pharmaceuticals, clinical research or related area.
  • Research and IT skills, specifically in relation to qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies, including conducting focus groups, interview techniques, developing questionnaires and data analysis.
  • Self-motivated with meticulous time management skills with the ability to re-prioritise.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in teams and independently.
  • Presentation skills.
  • Skills for managing aspects of projects ensuring they meet financial targets.
  • Skills for manipulating information.
  • Advanced keyboard skills, use of a range of software.

Desirable Criteria

  • Previous experience in, or knowledge of, health interventions underpinned by behavioural science.
  • Previous experience in project delivery.
  • Good understanding of skills and experience in safe working practices.
Application & Sift This vacancy is using Competency framework. At sift stage you will be assessed against the essential criteria listed in the job advert. You will be required to complete an:
  • Application form (Employer/ Activity history section on the application)
  • Up to 1,000 number of words supporting statement
Healthjobs UK has a word limit of 1500, but your supporting statement must be no more than 1000 word count. We will not accept a supporting statement over 1,000 words. This should outline how your skills, experience and knowledge provide evidence of your suitability for the role. You will receive a joint score for your application form and statement. (The application form is the kind of information you would put into your CV please be advised you will not be able to upload your CV. Please complete the application form in as much detail as possible. Longlisting 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
We will take the 'Meets all essential criteria' pile through to shortlisting. Shortlisting If we receive a large number of applications an initial sift against the essential criteria of :
  • Research and IT skills, specifically in relation to qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies, including conducting focus groups, interview techniques, developing questionnaires and data analysis
If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to an interview. Please note feedback will not be provided at this stage. Interview stage You will be invited to a remote interview. This vacancy is being assessed using Competency. During the interview we will assess against the below based on the Essential Criteria:
  • Knowledge
  • Experience
  • Skills and Abilities

You will be asked to prepare and present a 5-minute presentation at the start of your interview. The subject of this will be based on:

  • Analysis of data from feedback given from a webinar

Further details will be sent prior to the interview.

Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records. Eligibility Criteria Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants). Salary Grade EO National £28,547 - £33,196 If you are successful at interview, and are moving from another government department, NHS, or Local Authority, the relevant starting salary principles for level transfers or promotions will apply. Otherwise, roles are offered at the pay scale minimum for the grade, but in exceptional circumstances there may be flexibility if you are able to demonstrate you are already in receipt of an existing, higher salary. Pay increases are through the relevant annual pay award for the role and terms. Location This role is being offered as hybrid working based in Gloucester. We offer great flexible working opportunities at UKHSA and operate using a hybrid working model where business needs allow. This provides us with greater flexibility about how and where we work, to get the best from our workforce. As a hybrid worker, you will be expected to spend a minimum of 60% of your contractual working hours (approximately 3 days a week pro rata, (averaged over a month) working at Twyver House. Security Clearance Level Requirement All successful candidates must meet the basic security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is:
  • Basic Personnel Security Standard (BPSS)
DBS Requirement - due to the nature of the role:
  • Enhanced DBS

Job description

Job responsibilities

  • To implement and utilise a range of quantitative research methods/statistical analyses/techniques in support of all activities associated with research projects aiming to ensure project targets are met.
  • To implement and utilise a range of qualitative research methods and analysis techniques to undertake and analyse interviews and focus groups.
  • To apply behavioural science to the development of data collection tools, analysis and implications of research findings, including the development of interventions.
  • To correspond with ethics committees and submit ethics applications and local approvals.
  • To undertake needs assessments to inform the development of diagnostic or educational tools.
  • To assist or conduct data collection such as surveys, interviews and focus groups (face to face and telephone) in line with Caldicott guidelines and GDPR.
  • To conduct literature reviews of electronic databases and grey literature.
  • To create, manage and manipulate databases (Access/Excel/Endnote/Epidata) including data input; cleaning, coding validation and verification of data sets; and supplying appropriate raw data sets to statisticians.
  • To provide reports through descriptive analysis of data using software and databases as necessary, to meet project targets.
  • To disseminate research through exhibiting/presenting at conferences, events and workshops; preparing and publishing papers in peer-reviewed journals.
  • To assist with the updating, reviewing and administration of resources/tools and websites.
  • To organize meetings, participate, take minutes and follow up as delegated.
  • To undertake work in accordance with UKHSAs Health and Safety policies and procedures and to work within any Quality Systems that are applicable to the site.

Professional Development

  • To identify, discuss and action own professional performance and training / development needs with your line manager through appraisal / individual development plan. Attending internal / external training events
  • To participate in all mandatory training as required, i.e. fire safety, information governance and all other mandatory training.

It should be noted that the work of the division is of a sensitive nature and must not be communicated to other persons except where required for authorised purposes.

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 division and UKHSA.

Essential Criteria

  • Educated to MSc degree level or degree standard in microbiological sciences, public health and/or research or equivalent relevant experience at a similar level.
  • Degree standard level in microbiological sciences, public health and/or research or equivalent experience at a similar level.
  • Be required to undertake higher level/advanced training in research methodologies and/or project management e.g. a professional doctorate.
  • Professional/research experience in the field of public health, education, nursing, microbiology, pharmaceuticals, clinical research or related area.
  • Research and IT skills, specifically in relation to qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies, including conducting focus groups, interview techniques, developing questionnaires and data analysis.
  • Self-motivated with meticulous time management skills with the ability to re-prioritise.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in teams and independently.
  • Presentation skills.
  • Skills for managing aspects of projects ensuring they meet financial targets.
  • Skills for manipulating information.
  • Advanced keyboard skills, use of a range of software.

Desirable Criteria

  • Previous experience in, or knowledge of, health interventions underpinned by behavioural science.
  • Previous experience in project delivery.
  • Good understanding of skills and experience in safe working practices.
Application & Sift This vacancy is using Competency framework. At sift stage you will be assessed against the essential criteria listed in the job advert. You will be required to complete an:
  • Application form (Employer/ Activity history section on the application)
  • Up to 1,000 number of words supporting statement
Healthjobs UK has a word limit of 1500, but your supporting statement must be no more than 1000 word count. We will not accept a supporting statement over 1,000 words. This should outline how your skills, experience and knowledge provide evidence of your suitability for the role. You will receive a joint score for your application form and statement. (The application form is the kind of information you would put into your CV please be advised you will not be able to upload your CV. Please complete the application form in as much detail as possible. Longlisting 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
We will take the 'Meets all essential criteria' pile through to shortlisting. Shortlisting If we receive a large number of applications an initial sift against the essential criteria of :
  • Research and IT skills, specifically in relation to qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies, including conducting focus groups, interview techniques, developing questionnaires and data analysis
If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to an interview. Please note feedback will not be provided at this stage. Interview stage You will be invited to a remote interview. This vacancy is being assessed using Competency. During the interview we will assess against the below based on the Essential Criteria:
  • Knowledge
  • Experience
  • Skills and Abilities

You will be asked to prepare and present a 5-minute presentation at the start of your interview. The subject of this will be based on:

  • Analysis of data from feedback given from a webinar

Further details will be sent prior to the interview.

Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records. Eligibility Criteria Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants). Salary Grade EO National £28,547 - £33,196 If you are successful at interview, and are moving from another government department, NHS, or Local Authority, the relevant starting salary principles for level transfers or promotions will apply. Otherwise, roles are offered at the pay scale minimum for the grade, but in exceptional circumstances there may be flexibility if you are able to demonstrate you are already in receipt of an existing, higher salary. Pay increases are through the relevant annual pay award for the role and terms. Location This role is being offered as hybrid working based in Gloucester. We offer great flexible working opportunities at UKHSA and operate using a hybrid working model where business needs allow. This provides us with greater flexibility about how and where we work, to get the best from our workforce. As a hybrid worker, you will be expected to spend a minimum of 60% of your contractual working hours (approximately 3 days a week pro rata, (averaged over a month) working at Twyver House. Security Clearance Level Requirement All successful candidates must meet the basic security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is:
  • Basic Personnel Security Standard (BPSS)
DBS Requirement - due to the nature of the role:
  • Enhanced DBS

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

Essential

  • Application Form & Supporting Statement

Presentation

Essential

  • Analysis of data from feedback given from a webinar

Essential Criteria

Essential

  • Knowledge, Experience, Skills & Abilities
Person Specification

Essential Criteria

Essential

  • Application Form & Supporting Statement

Presentation

Essential

  • Analysis of data from feedback given from a webinar

Essential Criteria

Essential

  • Knowledge, Experience, Skills & Abilities

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

Additional information

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

Employer details

Employer name

UK Health Security Agency

Address

Gloucester

Bruton Way

Gloucester

GL1 1DQ


Employer's website

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-health-security-agency (Opens in a new tab)

Employer details

Employer name

UK Health Security Agency

Address

Gloucester

Bruton Way

Gloucester

GL1 1DQ


Employer's website

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-health-security-agency (Opens in a new tab)

Employer contact details

For questions about the job, contact:

Resourcing Support

Sarah Handy

sarah.handy@ukhsa.gov.uk

Details

Date posted

19 December 2025

Pay scheme

Other

Salary

£28,547 to £33,196 a year Per annum, pro rata

Contract

Fixed term

Duration

6 months

Working pattern

Full-time, Part-time, Job share, Flexible working

Reference number

919-SH-304962-EXT

Job locations

Gloucester

Bruton Way

Gloucester

GL1 1DQ


Privacy notice

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