Senior Data Analyst

General role description

Senior Data Analysts play a key role in making sense of large and complex datasets. They use advanced tools and techniques to find patterns in the data, help answer important questions, and help to inform decisions across clinical research, healthcare, and product development. These roles often involve working with different teams, from scientists and clinicians to business leaders, to understand what the data is showing and how it can be used. This role suits someone with several years of experience working with data who enjoys problem-solving, communicating insights, and helping teams make informed decisions.

Key tasks and responsibilities

  • Analyse large and complex datasets related to health, clinical trials, and/or business operations
  • Work with teams to plan and deliver data projects that answer research or business questions
  • Use coding tools like Python, R or SQL to clean data, run analyses, and check results
  • Help design dashboards, reports, or visual tools that clearly communicate findings
  • Review clinical protocols to understand what data is needed and how it should be analysed
  • Support real-world evidence projects that help demonstrate product or treatment effectiveness
  • Present insights and recommendations in a way that makes sense to different audiences

Workplace settings

  • Healthcare settings
  • Pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies
  • Contract Research Organisations (CROs)
  • Government, not-for-profit, peak body and advocacy organisations involved in research

Required qualifications

  • A degree in data science, computer science, public health, biomedical science, statistics, or a related field
  • Postgraduate qualifications (e.g. Master’s or PhD) are often preferred

Other notable requirements

Senior Data Analysts often need:

  • 3+ years of experience working in health, clinical, or research data roles
  • Strong skills in tools like Python, R, SQL, and data visualisation platforms (e.g. Power BI, Tableau)
  • Experience analysing health or clinical datasets and understanding statistical methods
  • Good communication skills and the ability to explain complex ideas clearly
  • Experience working with different teams and managing competing deadlines
  • Interest in innovation and continuous learning, particularly in areas like machine learning

Common entry points

Common next roles

Principal Data Analyst (a senior technical expert role leading complex analyses; operates at the same level as a Manager but without formal people or resource management duties)

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