Job description - Research Data Analyst

Overview

Date: October 14, 2015

Job title:  Research Data Analyst

Reports to:  John Hirdes

Jobs reporting:  Research Data Analyst

Location:  BMH 2311

Department: School of Public Health and Health Systems

Primary purpose

This position facilitates the migration of data, prepares and analyzes large and complex interRAI data sets, and functions as a key member of several project research teams.

Key accountabilities

• Under the direction of the Supervisor and Data Manager, plan and conduct complex quantitative data analysis using SAS
• Manages the analyses of several large and small projects involving various combinations of investigators and staff
• Perform tasks related to data warehouse functions of the interRAI Canada research team (e.g., maintaining privacy standards, development and maintenance of gold standard code, data cleaning and management)
• Work collaboratively with the Data Manager and other Research Data Analyst to identify and resolve data quality issues
• Prepare detailed reports of data analysis results for a variety of audiences
• Assists project faculty, staff members, and students with database design and use, data management, and analyses
• Contributes to interim and final reports and articles for peer-reviewed journals

Position requirements

Education

Master’s degree in health sciences, epidemiology, and biostatistics or a related field or equivalent education/experience. 

Experience

Experience in data management and analytics is preferred. Previous experience working with health administrative data, epidemiology or in a research environment would be an asset. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of epidemiological methods and the ability to conduct univariate and multi-variable statistical analyses of large, complex, cross-sectional and longitudinal data sets. Previous experience with statistical software (SAS preferred) and Excel is required.

Technical

Advanced knowledge of SAS. Some knowledge of interRAI series of assessment instruments and their applications, including: outcome measures, quality indicators, care planning protocols and case-mix systems, is preferred. Knowledge of other CIHI databases (e.g., DAD, NACRS) would be an asset. Demonstrated ability to plan and carry out research projects.

Nature and scope

• Interpersonal skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, decision-making, organization, time management, and the ability to laisse effectively both externally and internally. Communicates with employees in all groups and at all levels to support all data analysis, cleaning and reporting. Strong interpersonal skills and data gathering skills are required. Ability to work independently and as a member or a team. Must be detail oriented, able to handle multiple tasks, and adapt quickly to changing needs of the business to meet deadlines.    
• Level of responsibility: Work closely with the Supervisor and Data Manager, staff and students to develop, implement and maintain data quality tools and processes, data analysis, cleaning and reporting. Contribute by making presentations at scientific meetings and participating in writing scientific papers
• Decision-making authority: Maintain master data policies and procedures to ensure data meets quality targets. Develop and design an audit methodology which quantifies data quality and verifies usability of the data. Plan and implement statistical analysis under the guidance of the Supervisor and Data Manager.
• Physical and sensory demands: Mainly sedentary. Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, speak, and hear. Specific vision abilities include the ability to see things at a close distance and ability to adjust focus. Occasionally required to stand, walk, and lift objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
• Working environment: Shared office space. Noise level is moderate.