It has been a long pandemic, and some bright spots are beginning to appear on the horizon. One of them is that we have a new professional joining our team, to work with Kerry Miller in the role of Research Data Support Officer – Simon Smith.

The University’s Digital Research Services programme makes it possible to fund this post for the Research Data Service – deemed an essential addition following a period of reduced resource, because of the need to increase outreach, training and awareness, and take-up of services in the light of the new Research Data Management Policy.

Simon has worked in Research Data Management since 2015, when he joined the Open Research Team at the University of Surrey. He has spent his time helping to develop a range of research data management (RDM) services, implementing two repositories, and learning to love data management planning. He is genuinely interested in issues around data licencing and sensitive/personal data. His teaching and research background is in philosophy, in the service of which he edited a scholarly journal. Now, however, he is slightly obsessed with James Joyce’s Ulysses.

Simon has been in post for nearly 2 weeks, and is keen to meet researchers and their supporters from all corners of the university – please send any and all invitations to come chat about RDM to data-support@ed.ac.uk! We look forward to gaining from Simon’s insights and experience.

Robin Rice & Simon Smith
Library & University Collections

Information Services has a new vacancy for a Data Safe Haven Operations Assistant to work directly with the Data Safe Haven Manager in the Research Data Support Team in providing operational support for the Data Safe Haven and its users across the University. This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic researcher or professional to apply their academic and support skills to a growing service area, and to help build and raise awareness of our new Data Safe Haven.

You will have research experience and knowledge of current data protection regulations and other relevant legislation in the context of research. You will have an understanding of university structures and norms. You will know how to work methodically and transparently, following and documenting standard operating procedures. You will document and present the service for different audiences to ensure high levels of uptake and engagement with the service.

The Data Safe Haven Operations Assistant is a key role in the development and delivery of the new Data Safe Haven component of the Research Data Service, delivered by Library Research Support together with other sections of Information Services. The role allows the post-holder to contribute to defining the way the Data Safe Haven service will operate within the University, including achieving standards-based certifications.

This is a fixed-term full-time position for two years. Funded by the Digital Research Services programme, you will be part of a collaborative, engaging, and innovative working environment within Information Services. There are many advantages to working at the University. Benefits include flexible working, an excellent pension, career prospects and generous holiday provision.

Closing date: 15th February, 2019

Full details are available at: https://www.vacancies.ed.ac.uk/pls/corehrrecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=046776

On behalf of Cuna Ekmekcioglu
Data Safe Haven Manager