Public Health Principal (Local Authority Research Practitioner)

Bedford Borough Council; Bedford; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in England is seeking a motivated officer to promote research and evidence-based practice. This role involves collaborating with senior colleagues to improve the public health culture and influence better health outcomes for residents. The position is fixed-term for two years, with an opportunity for extension. Closing date for applications is November 16, 2025.

Benefits

Local government pension (for Senior Officers)

Qualifications

• Motivated and enthusiastic disposition.
• Ability to communicate passion for research and data.
• Support colleagues in applying evidence-based practice.

Responsibilities

• Promote and support research initiatives.
• Work with senior colleagues to develop research culture.
• Translate research insights into actionable outcomes.

Job description

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and enthusiastic officer to promote and support research across Bedford Borough Council, influencing the delivery of better value and improved outcomes through the use of evidence based practice.

You will work with a range of senior colleagues across the Council to develop the research culture and infrastructure, capacity and capability for research, supporting the Council to deliver its aims, including improving residents’ health and wellbeing. You will have the ability to communicate your passion for research, evidence and data, and support colleagues to translate those insights into action.

Team and Reporting

You will be joining the shared public health team for Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes; reporting directly to the Deputy Director for Public Health and working closely with LARPs from Central Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes City Councils.

Contract Details

The post is offered for a 2 year fixed term, with the potential to extend for a further year.

How to Apply

When you are ready to apply, click on “Apply for Vacancy”; you will be asked to upload a CV and answer some application questions. The application questions require a yes/no response. Please make sure your CV shows how you meet the requirements for the role you are applying for, the job profile below will show the essential selection criteria. An optional CV template is provided below.

Closing Date

16th November 2025

Interview Date(s)

W/C 1st December 2025

Please Note

• A severance payment (within 12 months of leaving)
• A local government pension (applies to Senior Officers only) unless the appointment is business critical

For further information, please email [e-mail]

Bedford Borough Council is proud to be a member of the Armed Forces Covenant and the Care Leavers Covenant, we pledge to interview any eligible job applicant who meets the minimum criteria for the job they are applying for. Bedford Borough Council is also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer and guarantees to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role they are applying for.

Visa Sponsorship

Bedford Borough Council is unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.