Statistical Editor in Evidence Synthesis and Meta-analysis

STATISTICAL EDITOR
Post : Statistical Editor in Evidence Synthesis and Meta-analysis
Location: Flexible (Cochrane Editorial Unit, London preferred)
Specifications: Full time
Salary: Up to £45,000 dependent on skills and experience
Closing date for applications: 6th October 2014


Cochrane is an independent, international network of over 30,000 health practitioners, researchers and patient advocates, responding to the challenge of making the evidence generated through research more useful for informing decisions about health.

We believe that a world of improved health is possible when decisions are informed by high-quality, up-to-date, synthesized evidence. To date we have published over 5,000 Cochrane Systematic Reviews that are internationally recognised as the benchmark for high-quality information about the effectiveness of health care.
The Cochrane Editorial Unit (CEU) is part of The Cochrane Collaboration, and was established in 2009 under the direction of the Editor in Chief of The Cochrane Library, Dr David Tovey. The CEU team works with internal and external stakeholders on a range of projects relating to Cochrane Review quality and development of The Cochrane Library.
We are looking to recruit a full time post. This post will be divided into two specific elements with time allocation 50% as part of the Cochrane Editorial Unit team and 50% working with the Statistical Methods Group (SMG). The post would be suitable for individuals on secondment, or for people wishing to job share and is open to anyone based anywhere in the world. Ideally, the post holder will be based in an academic institution or organisation that has close ties to Cochrane.
The successful candidate will provide statistical input on request in support of the methods quality assurance work led by the Senior Editor responsible for methods quality. The post holder will work on monitoring the quality of statistical analysis in Cochrane reviews, monitoring the literature in respect of contemporary expectations. In addition to this he or she will contribute to the updating of statistical guidance and standards for Cochrane reviews, in conjunction with the members of the Statistical Methods Group, and revision of the relevant sections of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. For the element of the role that relates to the SMG the post holder will need to demonstrate awareness and understanding of the developing literature in relation to review synthesis methods, and be able to provide leadership and credibility within the SMG in determining appropriate changes to Cochrane statistical methods, and to assist in their implementation across the Collaboration.
Key attributes:

The successful candidate will have:
• Experience of involvement in and publication of statistical research,
• A post-graduate degree in medical statistics or equivalent
• An understanding of the importance of systematic reviews to clinical decision making
• Familiarity with editorial and publishing processes and practices
• Familiarity with Cochrane guidance and standards on the design, conduct and reporting of systematic reviews, including GRADE methods.
• Intermediate level IT skills, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Computing experience with a statistical software (such as Stata, R, SAS)
• Knowledge and skills relevant to the systematic review process
• An ability to develop and maintain working relationships with key stakeholders
• Strong organization and prioritization skills
• Attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work methodically and accurately
• A pro-active approach to problem-solving

The full job description is available here.
Application process:
To apply, please email Rachael Wallwork (rwallwork@cochrane.org) with your CV and a covering letter, with “Statistical Editor” in the subject line.
The covering letter should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements for the post outlined in the job description, using specific examples. List your experience, achievements, knowledge, personal qualities and skills which you feel are relevant to the post. You may include paid and unpaid work, work within the home and leisure interests.
Interviews:
Interview date: to be confirmed but expected to be in mid-late October 2014.