Senior Research Excellence and Strategy Manager

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.

In preparation for LSTM’s REF2029 submission, we are looking to appoint a Senior Research Excellence and Strategy Manager to join our Office for Research Strategy and Knowledge Exchange within our professional services function.

The successful candidate will be responsible for a broad range activities including all aspects of REF (Research Excellence Framework) including providing advice, leadership, coordination, compliance, quality and submission. This post will also hold responsibility for providing research strategy insights, in addition to contributing the LSTM funder engagement strategy.

This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with the Head of Research Strategy & Knowledge Exchange in helping to shape a brand-new department. The post will also support the research committee Chair and leadership of the Secretariat, with the ultimate shared goal of creating an optimal research innovation ecosystem to deliver LSTM’s mission, whilst building on LSTM’s world-class reputation.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Strategy Development
• Working with the Head of the Research Strategy & Knowledge Exchange to provide leadership, guidance, and direction to the research strategy, fostering a collaborative and innovative approach.
• Lead, advise and support as domain expert user within LSTM’s Research Information System.
• Manage the relevant delivery priorities of the broader Office for Research Strategy and Knowledge Exchange team to sector-leading standards, ensuring a high quality, focussed and fully compliant service is provided.

• Research Excellence Framework (REF)
  • Adopt the role of LSTM’s trusted REF (Research Excellence Framework) advisor, providing professional management of REF submissions and all subsequent exercises, including supporting the leadership team with the development and implementation of REF strategies.
  • Analyse, interpret and adopt external guidance and policy, highlighting potential risk and exposure of the organisation and developing appropriate mitigations.

• Research Environment & Strategy
  • Lead regular dialogue and liaison with department heads, global hubs, faculty members and international partners to understand the research needs of the academic community
  • Develop and implement effective research horizon scanning, intelligence gathering and a strategic funder engagement approach.

• External Engagement:
  • Support the Head of Research Strategy & Knowledge Exchange and senior academics to represent 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.

The successful candidate will bring:  

• Knowledge and experience of research within a higher education context, including REF and/or KEF and Research, Culture and Environment
• Significant involvement in previous REF submissions
• Knowledge and understanding of relevant funding bodies, their practice and strategic priorities
• An excellent understanding of broader national policy priorities in relation to research and knowledge exchange
• Experience in a senior research management or planning role in the higher education sector
• The ability to assess research performance at all levels of institutional organisation, ensuring responsible use of metrics
• Experience of the research cycle, in particular horizon scanning and funder engagement
• Educated to degree level or equivalent

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