Salary: £39,748 gross per annum (an additional Specialist Allowance may be available depending on skills and experience*)
Band: UKRI Band E
Location: RAL- Oxfordshire
Contract Type: Open-ended
Hours: Full-time or Part-time (minimum 0.8FTE) (We understand the importance of work-life balance, and offer flexible working, but do require at least 3 days a week on-site)
Due to the requirement of obtaining an enhanced security clearance for this role, we are only able to accept applications from persons who have been residents in the UK for the last 5 years. We cannot sponsor visa applications for this role.
About the role:
We have an exciting opportunity for an Evaluation and Data Analyst to join the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC). You will be working alongside scientists, engineers, developers, and experts in quantum technologies, working to enhance the UK’s quantum computing capabilities.
The role is seeking an analyst to perform data analysis of evidence on the progress and performance of projects. This analysis will support the evaluation of the benefits/impacts delivered by the NQCC programme. This role is critical in supporting evaluation and strengthening the analysis function in NQCC. Outputs from this role will feed into the organisation’s decision-making, strategy and planning.
The analyst will have the responsibility to manage NQCC’s information databases and is expected to deliver high-quality, reliable insights, and analysis from internal and secondary data sources as part of the monitoring, evaluation, and reporting responsibilities of the Evaluation function. The successful candidate is expected to design and develop analytical solutions using a variety of tools and software and ensure that the data meets the needs of various functions and stakeholders within the NQCC.
The role offers learning and development opportunities; for example, regular feedback from line management and peers, opportunities to understand emerging technologies, opportunities to undertake relevant training necessary for enhancing the role, opportunities to train and mentor across UKRI.
The successful candidate will be based within the NQCC Programme Delivery Function and will report to the Programme Evaluation Manager.
The Evaluation function in NQCC is responsible for embedding planning and management for impact throughout NQCC. Evaluation feeds into organisation setup, strategy development, data collation frameworks and qualitative and quantitative reporting. It provides evidence of progress towards organisational objectives and informs future decision-making. In doing this it draws on a range of internal and external data sources and works collaboratively with all functions across the entire organisation.
What will I be doing?
- Perform analysis of quantitative/qualitative data with high accuracy and support delivery of insights from outcomes of activities for progress and performance reporting.
- Identify and collaborate with stakeholders responsible for data/information generation to scope out the plan for data collection. Work with team members to ensure that relevant information data is collected at the right time.
- Establish reporting and monitoring processes collaboratively to track progress towards reporting goals and impacts.
- Create solutions through data analysis and contribute to impact analysis and evaluation studies.
- Create and manage data/information systems for reporting needs. Ensure that the information and data is refreshed and kept up to date.
- Assist the Programme Evaluation Manager to run evaluation activities, for example, this can include ongoing management and delivery of contracted-out evaluation activities.
- Support colleagues in capturing and monitoring outputs, outcomes, and impact as per defined indicators and metrics to aid the evaluation of the NQCC programme and its activities.
This is an outline description of the key responsibilities and accountabilities involved in the job. This is not an exhaustive list, and the successful applicant might be expected to undertake any other duties across NQCC, appropriate to the Band and level of responsibility of this post, for which the post-holder has the necessary experience and/or training.
What experience do I need?
You do not need any prior knowledge of quantum computing for this role as we offer significant development and training opportunities.
We are looking for someone who understands approaches to data analysis and can draw out insights, trends, patterns etc. from both quantitative and qualitative datasets. You will have a proven ability to analyse and present complex information to different audiences through the generation of reports and dashboards. You can handle data and understand the importance of data integrity having had experience in data management, storage, cleansing and curation of data. You are able to generate datasets from structured as well as unstructured information.
A competent user of Microsoft Excel and SQL, with the ability to use quantitative and/or qualitative data evaluation software and /or data visualisation programmes (e.g., Python/R, PowerBI, Tableau, etc). You are able to work under pressure, managing competing priorities to tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment. You have a broad understanding of the evaluation of scientific projects/programmes, are familiar with project management approaches and principles that are relevant to the job and have an aptitude for learning. You can develop strong interpersonal relationships that help you encourage staff and stakeholders to report information that is required to manage databases.
Assessment criteria for Recruitment:
(S= Shortlisting) (I=Interview)
- Educated to Degree level or an equivalent in a relevant subject area or the ability to demonstrate equivalent experience. It may suit candidates with a degree in science/engineering or with evaluation/analysis experience. (S)
- Strong analytical skills with demonstrable knowledge of quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods, and data visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau). (S+I)
- Ability to extract and communicate information of value from quantitative and qualitative datasets. (S+I)
- A good understanding of approaches and techniques in the monitoring and evaluation of research and innovation projects. (S+I)
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment, managing multiple projects and tasks simultaneously. (S+I)
- Strong attention to detail, with the ability to critically evaluate data quality, accuracy, and reliability. (S+I)
- Demonstrable aptitude for learning. (S+I).
Travel:
This post will require occasional travel within the UK and internationally as required.
Security Clearance
The post you are applying for attracts a National Security Vetting clearance, there are further eligibility requirements, for further details at: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/united-kingdom-security-vetting
To meet national security vetting requirements, you will normally need to have been resident in the UK for at least 3 years for CTC, 5 years for SC and 10 years for DV prior to the date of application. All DV posts are required to be UK Nationals.
You may still be considered if, for example:
- You’ve been serving overseas with HM Forces or in some other official capacity as a representative of HM Government
- You were studying abroad
- You were living overseas with parents.
Benefits:
We offer an excellent benefits package including a generous defined pension scheme, 30 days annual leave plus an additional 10.5 public and privilege days and many more benefits that will help maintain a healthy work life balance. Join us and discover what’s possible!
About the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC)
As part of the UK’s National Quantum Technologies Programme, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is leading a programme to establish a National Quantum Computing Centre, which includes a commitment of £93m over 5 years, dedicated to drive development in the field of Quantum Computing and to place the UK at the forefront of the field. The Centre is a joint initiative of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
A purpose-built National Quantum Computing Centre will be built and operated by UKRI at the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) campus in Oxfordshire. The Centre will be open and operational by December 2022. Until then, the NQCC’s activities are taking place in other facilities on the Harwell Campus or at partnering institutions. The NQCC will sit alongside other departments within the STFC National Laboratories and will be part of the broader National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP).
The primary purpose of the NQCC is to fill a key gap in the research and innovation landscape addressing the challenge of scaling quantum computing. However, this technology is immature and extensive development work is needed to scale the fundamental science to provide usable computing systems.
The NQCC’s initial 5 years will focus on developing a Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) machine to demonstrate the technology as well as software, algorithm and applications development. The longer-term aim is to scale the technology towards an error and noise-free fault-tolerant machine capability with benchmarking and verification demonstrated in collaboration with the UK and international partners. The NQCC will give assured and direct access to early prototype machines to developers and promote the formation of a strong UK-based quantum computing supply chain.
About The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
As one of Europe’s largest research organisations, we ask the biggest questions in the universe to find answers that change the world around us. We seek understanding. We’re proud of the impact we make. And we’re committed to helping build a globally competitive, knowledge-based UK economy. Being part of all this means contributing to work that pushes boundaries and creates possibilities. You’ll work with, and learn from, true experts. Whatever your role, you’ll be free to question, and encouraged to share ideas. And, in a positive and supportive culture, you’ll discover just what a difference you can make when you’re equipped and inspired to excel.
We’re a place where curious minds thrive. Not bound by profit, we explore ideas that others don’t, ask questions that others won’t, and discover answers that others are not equipped to find. And, alongside Mars landings and black holes, we also explore diverse, international projects in everything from science and engineering to computing and technology. Whether it’s at the cutting edge or behind the scenes, our work is intellectually challenging. It’s very often ground-breaking. And it’s endlessly, irresistibly fascinating.
For more information about STFC please visit https://stfc.ukri.org/
You can also visit our careers site https://www.stfccareers.co.uk/
About UK Research Innovation (UKRI)
UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation.
Supporting some of the world’s most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.
More information can be found at www.ukri.org.
Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and a salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit the benefits of working for UKRI.
How we support EDI in the workforce
At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community. For further information, please visit ‘How we support EDI in the workforce’.
Disability Confident Employer
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
How to apply
Online applications are only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and cover letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a cover letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted cover letter and CV and not the ‘experience’ section of the application.
Additional Information
- Organisation: Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) – National Quantum Computing Centre
- Contract Type: Open Ended
- External Closing Date: Jul 2, 2023
- Minimum Salary: Pound Sterling (GBP) 39,748
- Hours: Full-time