Data Scientist
The Drug Safety Research Unit (DSRU), based in Southampton, is a leading independent research organisation dedicated to safeguarding public health. We monitor, study, and communicate the safety and risk–benefit balance of medicines and vaccines, helping ensure that patients and healthcare systems can trust the treatments they rely on.
Associated with the University of Portsmouth, we combine scientific rigour with real-world impact. The DSRU is recognised nationally and internationally for delivering high-quality pharmacovigilance and pharmacoepidemiology research and innovative methodologies. Our work informs regulators, healthcare professionals, and global partners, contributing directly to safer medicines for all.
About the job
Overview
This is a new role within the DSRU, created to bring experienced data science capability to help shape, prioritise and guide our emerging analytics initiatives. As a mid‑level data scientist, you will develop robust, reproducible analytical solutions, including statistical modelling and, where appropriate, machine learning to support our research. You will work with complex healthcare datasets, query our databases, and enhance the efficiency and automation of existing processes.
A key part of the role is making data and insights accessible across the organisation. You will design dashboards and self‑service tools that empower, helping accelerate evidence generation and improving the consistency and quality of our outputs.
Please note: This role is UK‑based and cannot be performed from overseas.
The role
We're looking for a talented Data Scientist to help shape the future of analytics at the DSRU. This is a role for someone who enjoys combining strategic thinking with hands-on problem solving; someone who wants real ownership, variety, and the chance to make a visible impact on public health. In this mid-level position, you'll work closely with multidisciplinary teams, bringing data driven thinking into the heart of our research. You'll collaborate with colleagues and external partners, explore new analytical approaches, and contribute to building a modern, efficient analytics. If you're curious, adaptable, and motivated by meaningful work, this is a place where your ideas will be valued.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you'll:
Work with internal and external collaborators to support study design, data extraction, cleaning, and analysis of large healthcare datasets.
Promote reproducible research by using version control and code repositories (e.g., Git) as part of everyday workflow
Develop automated pipelines to streamline repetitive data tasks, including producing analytical visualisations, which will support creating efficient processes and reduce manual errors.
Standardise analytical outputs to enhance consistency, clarity, and quality across the organisation
Develop user‑friendly dashboards that make insights accessible and help colleagues track key metrics.
Translate complex data into clear, actionable insights for scientific teams and drive building data science capability across the organisation.
Advise leadership on analytics opportunities and priorities, ensuring we focus on initiatives that deliver the most value.
Ensure robust data governance, complying with UK GDPR, DSRU policies, and pharmacovigilance regulatory standards.
Who We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who is confident working with data, able to produce robust analysis and actionable insights with minimal supervision. You should be ready to contribute from day one and enjoy delivering high impact work in a collaborative environment. You'll thrive in this role if you're comfortable working with colleagues at all levels, including senior stakeholders, and can communicate complex ideas clearly. Strong judgement, the ability to influence others, and excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential.
This role is UK‑based and cannot be performed from overseas.
Essential: Education and Experience
Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Data Science, (Medical) Statistics, Computer Science, Epidemiology, or similar quantitative disciplines.
3-7 year hands on experience as a Data Scientist in commercial or academic settings, ideally within healthcare, scientific research, or other regulated environments.
Strong programming skills, including R (essential), SQL (essential) and Python (desirable).
Experience in data extraction, transformation, manipulation, statistical analysis, and automation.
Strong understanding of version control (Git) and best practices for documentation, reproducibility and auditability.
Essential: Analytical and Interpersonal Skills
Proactive problem solver with a track record of identifying inefficiencies and implementing automated solutions.
Strong stakeholder management and prioritisation skills, with experience engaging both internal and external parties effectively
Experience using R for transforming large datasets to a Common Data Model (CDM)
For detailed information about the role, please read the job description
What it's like to work here
At the DSRU, you'll join a close-knit team united by a clear purpose: making a real, measurable impact on public health. We do this together with our clients and research partners across the UK and around the world, bringing together diverse expertise to advance medicines and vaccine safety.
Our team includes epidemiologists, medical doctors, pharmacists, biomedical researchers, and dedicated operational staff, all working side by side in an environment that's friendly, non-hierarchical, and genuinely supportive. You'll find plenty of space to develop, contribute, and grow in the directions that matter to you.
We value initiative and curiosity. If you see a smarter way of doing something or have an idea for improving a process, you'll be empowered to shape it and lead the change. We actively encourage innovation and give you the autonomy to make a meaningful difference.
We're also committed to your ongoing development. Whether through formal training, conferences, or new learning opportunities, we'll support you in building the skills and experience that will move your career forward.
What We Offer
A permanent contract
A competitive salary that reflects your skills and experience, with a salary range between £35,000 - to £45,000.
28 days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays.
A stimulating and supportive work environment that encourages growth and development.
The opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Hybrid working conditions to promote work-life balance, you are expected to be at our office in Southampton 2-3 days a week.
Interested?
Are you as excited about this opportunity as we are? We can't wait to hear from you
Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the 2nd March.
For a full job description and our recruitment privacy policy, please visit the DSRU recruitment page.
For questions about the role or the recruitment process, please contact:
Anticipated Interview Date
17th of March 2026