Research Assistant (Data Manager)

As a Research Assistant (Data Manager) you will work within the Data Management function of the Centre for Trials Research (CTR). You will be responsible for all data management tasks within your assigned trial/s and must be able to clearly communicate with different groups, work to tight-deadlines and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). You will have a proven ability to carry out your day-to-day activities independently and have experience of planning your own workload.

During the set up of a trial, the Data Manager will take ownership of data-decisions in key trial documents (e.g. trial protocol, Data Management Plan) Working to well-managed deadlines in all aspects of work, you will work collaboratively with the trial team on the design of the data collection methods and database specifications .You will rigorously test the trial database in-line with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and transpose the data-capture, handling, storage methods into the Data Management Plan (DMP). You will have meticulous attention to detail and clear communication skills to ensure that these tasks are completed to time.

During the recruitment and follow up period of the trial, you will be responsible for implementing the DMP; to provide a clean and complete data-set. This will be done by monitoring the completeness, accuracy, consistency and validity of trial data. You will liaise with site staff and central study teams to oversee the resolution of data queries, producing and presenting study status reports to deadline and ensuring all Data Management files and documentation are maintained appropriately., To contribute to research within trials, carrying out supporting work that helps lead to the publishing of high-quality research. To pursue excellence in research and to inspire others to do the same.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Research

• To undertake research with a focus on the planning and implementation of data management processes and systems

• Actively participate within the research group, communicating and presenting research at meetings, through publications and other recognised avenues as appropriate, ensuring information is communicated to internal and external partners

• To contribute to research publications and presentations as required

• To analyse and communicate complex ideas, concepts and data using appropriate methods and packages

• To resolve issues and support senior colleagues in devising procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting

• To generate research output and contribute to the development of independent and original ideas as appropriate

• To provide support in research activities for undergraduate courses and research programmes and provide guidance to junior members of staff within the research team

• To maintain and update knowledge in data management, researching and critically appraising relevant literature within the area.

• Ensure that work is undertaken and documented in a regulatory compliant way and be prepared for regular audits and inspections, as well as contributing to the development of the quality management system for the area of data management.

Other

• To undergo personal and professional development that is appropriate to and which will enhance performance.

• To participate in administration and activities to promote the Centre and its work to the wider University and the outside world

• Any other duties not included above, but consistent with the role.

The successful candidate will have experience of working across multi-disciplinary teams and possess a working knowledge of regulations, including Good Clinical Practice and the General Data Protection Regulation and know how they apply to a Data Managers work. You will also have knowledge and experience of designing data-collection methods preferably within a regulated setting and prior experience of use of databases in Clinical Trials (e.g. REDCap, MACRO, SQL server) would be preferable. You will possess a high level of numeracy and be able to integrate and interpret data.

With a culture of continuous professional and career development the Centre has an excellent track record of helping people develop in their areas of interest, with many progressing within the Centre itself, the wider University or further afield., Qualifications and Education

1. A degree in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

2. Knowledge of research methods and techniques within specialist field

3. Proven ability to analyse complex information and summarise appropriately

4. Specialist knowledge of appropriate trial governance, systems and processes in relation to data management

5. Experience of working with IS professionals to deliver comprehensive data management solutions

Communication and Team Working

6. Proven communication skills, including presentation to various audiences

7. Excellent organisational and team-working skills

Other

8. Proven ability to demonstrate creativity, problem solving, innovation and teamworking within work

Desirable Criteria

1. PhD in a relevant discipline

2. Evidence of collaborations with industry, NHS or social care

3. Proven ability to adapt to the changing requirements of the Higher Education community

4. A commitment to high quality patient and public involvement

5. Fluency in Welsh, written and oral

This position is full-time (35 hours per week), fixed-term and available from 1 April 2026 until 31 December 2026, however this post is subject to a review process and may therefore be extended (or converted to open-ended).

This role is eligible to be offered on a blended working basis, meaning that as well as spending time working on campus you can also choose to spend some time working from another location, e.g. your home. The University is committed to offering this flexibility, wherever the role and business need allows, supporting work-life balance.

Salary: £33,951 - £36,636 per annum (Grade 5)

Cardiff University offers many excellent benefits, including 45 days annual leave (incl bank holidays), local pension scheme, a cycle to work scheme and other travel initiatives, annual increments within the pay scale, and more. It is an exciting and vibrant place to work, with many different challenges and is a proud Living Wage supporter.

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds. We therefore welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age. In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements., Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.