Head of Statistics (Variety Evaluation)

Ready to Shape the Future of Agriculture? Lead With Data. Influence Globally.

At Niab, we are offering a career-defining opportunity to take the reins as Head of Statistics (Variety Evaluation) a critical role at the intersection of agricultural science, policy, and innovation. If youre an expert in statistical analysis with a passion for applying data to real-world agricultural challenges, this is your chance to lead, influence, and drive impact on both a national and international scale.

ABOUT THE JOB

Why this role?

• Influence Policy & Practice Your work will directly shape government and industry decision-making in the UK and beyond.
• Lead a Skilled Team Manage a small, highly capable statistics team, driving excellence in crop variety testing.
• Make an Impact Play a pivotal role in tackling global issues like food security, climate change, and sustainable agriculture.
• Be the Expert Represent Niab in national and international forums, engaging with policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders.

This is a senior leadership position that ensures the integrity and excellence of crop trial data analysis informing key statutory contracts and commercial projects. Youll work with APHA, Defra, BSPB, and other major stakeholders to deliver cutting-edge statistical evaluations.

As part of this role, you will:

• Drive Innovation Implement the latest statistical methodologies to advance crop evaluation.
• Engage with Stakeholders Present findings and insights to policymakers, industry bodies, and researchers.
• Shape Strategy Play a vital role in Niabs leadership, influencing the future of agricultural data science.

This position has opened due to the planned retirement of the current postholder, and a structured handover will ensure you transition seamlessly into the role with full support and mentorship.

Location

The role is based at NIAB Park Farm, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9NZ, 4 miles from Cambridge city centre. Free on-site parking and linked by cycleways and regular buses to Cambridge city centre and railway station. Close to Junction 32 of A14, with easy access to M11, A10 and A11.

ABOUT YOU

Essential requirements:

• Degree in statistics or similar analytical background.
• Competent and confident use of Microsoft Office, including SharePoint.
• Competent in data management and analysis with statistical software: GenStat and R.
• Excellent organisation skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience working in practical data analysis for academia or industry.

Desirable requirements:

• Postgraduate qualification in applied statistics or with a similar analytical background.
• Knowledge of agricultural crops and plant testing systems within the UK.
• Experience of data analysis from field experimentation or environmental monitoring.
• Driving licence or access or independent means of transport to facilitate occasional travel to Niab or customer sites within Great Britain.

ABOUT US

Niab is a leading crop science organisation with research capabilities in plant genetics, agronomy, farming systems and data science. It has the largest national field trials capability and strong research links with industry, government and academia. With headquarters in Cambridge and regional offices across the country, employing close to 400 people across the UK, Niab provides scientific research, technical services and practical advice to improve the yield, efficiency and resilience of crop production across the arable, forage and horticulture sectors. Niab is an Independent Research Organisation eligible for competitive UKRI funding calls. Research departments at Niabs sites in Cambridge and East Malling have a large programme of BBSRC grants.

WHY JOIN US

When you join Niab, you become part of a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive environment that values diversity and empowers everyone to succeed. With over 400 dedicated staff nationwide, we provide opportunities for professional growth and a chance to make a meaningful impact in the future of agriculture.

We offer a competitive salary, paid overtime during peak seasons, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• 25 days holiday, plus public holidays and 3 extra days over Christmas.
• Flexible working.
• Generous pension scheme and sick pay.
• Life assurance, income protection, and employee discounts.
• Free on-site parking.
• Great colleagues.

Niab actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of society.

TO APPLY

Ready to take the next step? Apply now and become a driving force in the future of agricultural data science.

For further details and to apply, please visit our website via the Apply button.

Join us at Niab and shape the future of agriculture through innovative plant science!

Closing date: 5 March 2025.

Interview date: 28 March 2025 (online).

Please note that following changes to Immigration Law in April 2024, this role does not qualify for a Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Candidates with independently held immigration permission would be considered.

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