The NHS Counter Fraud Authority (NHSCFA) is the national body responsible for all matters relating to the prevention, detection and investigation of economic crime across the NHS. The Principal Data Scientist role focuses on applying and delivering advanced data analytics, machine learning, statistical analysis, and fraud detection techniques within the NHS.

Responsibilities

• Develop, manage and personally lead the development of fraud detection models and advanced analytics initiatives aligned with NHSCFA goals.
• Lead and line‑manage a team of analysts and data science professionals.
• Plan priorities, explore opportunities, and conduct data science and analysis in counter‑fraud areas.
• Apply expertise in all areas of data science, including ML/DL/GenAI/analytics, statistics, and the application of unstructured data (LLMs) to fraud detection.
• Engage stakeholders to ensure appropriate context is applied to data and insights from detection approaches.
• Develop and implement AI/ML algorithms to detect emerging fraud patterns while ensuring compliance with laws, professional practice, government and internal frameworks.
• Collaborate with counter‑fraud experts and domain experts within the NHS.
• Communicate progress and outcomes to senior managers, staff, and external agencies, including negotiating timelines where required.
• Lead full development cycles: design, QA, experiment, analyse, and deploy models.
• Assess tools, techniques, and systems for data science and analytics, including algorithm selection, data transformation methods, and technology used in fraud detection.
• Provide domain expertise in advanced analytics for counter‑fraud activities and agreed focus areas.
• Support the line manager to plan for functional spend.
• Ensure accuracy of financial claims for self and staff.
• Manage performance and effective analytical model cost and data processing.

Qualifications and Requirements

NPPV 2. Demonstrated practical expertise in data science tools, detection techniques, and standards used in counter‑fraud. Knowledge of data science with unstructured data (LLMs). Experience in leading teams and delivering advanced analytics solutions.

Compliance with baseline personnel security standards checks (HM Government Functional Standard GovS 007) and all relevant laws and frameworks.

EEO Statement

The NHSCFA values and respects the diversity of its employees and aims to recruit a workforce that reflects our diverse communities. We welcome applications irrespective of age, disability, gender, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or other personal circumstances. All applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, and reasonable adjustments are considered for people with a disability.

Application Deadline

This advert closes on Tuesday 21 Apr 2026.