Head of Research Strategy & Knowledge Exchange

The Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is a globally recognised centre of excellence for research and teaching in tropical diseases. As a world leader in translating academic research into tangible health impacts we are proud of the work we do and the impact this has on the people who need our help most. Recently ranked in the top 5.3% of universities in the world, ranked 2^nd in the UK for research impact through REF2021, and having recently celebrated our 125^th anniversary, there has never been a more exciting time to join our organisation.

We are looking to appoint a highly motivated and strategic individual to lead our Office for Research Strategy and Knowledge Exchange which is a brand-new department within our professional services function. The successful candidate will play a key leadership role in shaping LSTM’s research strategy, building on our success in the Research Excellence Framework (REF), Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) whilst developing our approach to better policy engagement.

Working with senior leaders across the institution, the Head of Research Strategy & Knowledge Exchange will implement LSTM’s strategic research and knowledge exchange plans, whist maximising funding opportunities and partnerships with external stakeholders. Additionally, you will lead and develop the knowledge exchange and policy engagement teams, ensuring LSTM’s research aligns with national and global policy priorities.

This is a fantastic opportunity to build and shape a new department and this role will drive the ongoing success of our research and knowledge exchange ambitions, ensuring LSTM continues to build on its world-class reputation.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Strategy Development
  • Provide leadership, guidance and direction to the knowledge exchange/research strategy, utilising analysis to inform data-driven decisions.
  • Development of a professional services plan and activities that support the delivery of a strategic research and knowledge exchange eco-system.
  • Working with members of the LSTM Executive to set KPI’s for strategic research and knowledge exchange insights, in addition to outlining and delivering on departmental objectives.

• Research Excellence Framework (REF) & Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF)
  • To provide professional leadership for the Research Excellence Framework (REF), Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) and Knowledge Exchange Concordat (KEC) submissions (and all subsequent exercises)
  • Work with the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Pro Vice Chancellors to support decision-making in relation to strategies.
  • Support the governance and oversight requirements of the REF and KE committees with the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Pro Vice Chancellors, Research Services and Strategic Planning

• Research Pipeline and Intelligence
  • To develop the knowledge of funding opportunities relevant to the research at LSTM and bringing new opportunities to the attention of the academics.
  • Regular liaison with Heads of the Academic Departments to understand the needs of the academic community and maintain a close appreciation of the Research funding needs at ground level.
  • Develop effective Research horizon scanning, intelligence gathering and a strategic funder engagement approach.

• External and Policy Engagement:
  • Liaise with Senior Academic staff in representing LSTM at relevant national and international forums related to research and knowledge exchange excellence, sharing best practices, and establishing collaborative networks.
  • Contribute and quality assure information/data returns for relevant Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), including developing local processes to gather appropriate information.
  • Collaborate with policy-focussed academic staff to support engagement with public policy, provide guidance on formal opportunities for policy engagement and facilitate engagement with policy makers.

We are looking for someone who can bring a positive, collaborative leadership style along with the following:  

• Undergraduate qualification / vocational equivalent, or a significant period of employment in a similar role
• Knowledge and experience of research within a higher education context, including REF and KEF, and the relevant funding bodies, their practice and strategic priorities
• An excellent understanding of broader national policy priorities in relation to research and knowledge exchange
• Proven experience in a strategic-level research management or planning role in higher education
• The ability to assess research performance at all levels of institutional organisation, and experience of the management and reporting of research outputs and statistics internally and externally
• Experience of the research cycle, in particular horizon scanning and funder engagement
• Demonstrable experience of setting high standards and determining the quality of service needed to achieve strategic goals

To see a full list of responsibilities and requirements, see the job description attached.

Additional benefits of joining LSTM:

• 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 6 additional Christmas closure days
• Generous occupational pension schemes
• Agile working
• Affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre
• Employee assistance programme to support with employee well-being
• High street discounts and cashback offers
• Government-backed cycle to work scheme
• Plus, a host of additional family friendly policies

Application process:

To apply for the position please click on the apply link and upload your CV and covering letter.

Due to the volume of applications, we receive, we may close our vacancies early. It is therefore advisable to apply as early as possible if you would like to be considered for a role.

Inclusion is central to our values at LSTM.

We seek to attract and recruit people who reflect the diversity across our communities, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, nationality, faith or belief, social background, age and disability. LSTM selects candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience.

We welcome conversations about flexible working; and applications from those returning to employment after a break from their careers.

About LSTM

Founded in 1898 and the oldest of its kind in the world, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in tropical diseases.  Through the creation of effective links with governments, NGOs, private organisations, and global institutions and by responding to the health needs of communities, LSTM aims to promote improved health, particularly for people of the less developed/resource poorest countries in the tropics and sub-tropics.

Look at some of the great work we have achieved over the past year by viewing our annual report: www.lstmed.ac.uk/about/annual-reports-and-financial-statements

LSTM actively promotes Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding Policies