Head of Research Strategy and Policy and Ref Manager

We have an exciting opportunity to lead the Research Strategy and Policy Team, a key team within the University of Aberdeen’s central Research and Innovation (R&I) Directorate. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and implementing research policies and strategies aligned to the university strategic plan Aberdeen 2040, ensuring we maintain the highest quality of governance and integrity. Additionally, the postholder will oversee the management of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) processes and submission, ensuring compliance and maximising the opportunity. The postholder is part of R&I’s leadership team, working closely with the Vice-Principal (Research) and their Research Deans.

The post will lead R&I’s Research Policy and Strategy team which is also responsible for the institutional submission to the Government’s research assessment exercises (REF2029), supporting institutional research committee(s), research related data systems, data analysis and monitoring/reporting on a range of research metrics and responsible for providing the institutional framework for maintaining the highest standards of research governance, ethics and compliance to statutory and funders requirements within our researcher community.

You will be educated to degree or higher degree level, and/or hold a professional qualification, and/or experience of working in a research environment within Higher Education or Funding Agency. You will have working knowledge on national and international research related policy matters, with extensive experience in research strategy development, policy formulation and REF management. A proven track record of leading and managing research support teams and initiatives, with excellent analytical and communication skills. You will have the ability to work confidently and persuasively with a range of stakeholders, using negotiation, communication and influencing skills to achieve successful outcomes. Additionally, you will be able to demonstrate the utilisation of skills and initiative to bring new ideas and understanding to challenge existing methods for improving service delivery and outcomes.

Salary will be at the appropriate point on the Grade 8 (£57,696 - £64,914 per annum).

Informal enquiries should be made to Dr Liz Rattray, Director, Research & Innovation [01224 274368; e.rattray@abdn.ac.uk]

Prior to employment, the successful candidate must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK.  This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route under the UKVI immigration rules but is dependent on factors specific to the candidate and if tradeable points can be used under the rules. Information on other visa options is available at www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa.

Please do not hesitate to contact Patrycja Bromm, HR Adviser (Graduate Trainee) (e-mail: patrycja.bromm@abdn.ac.uk) for further information.

To apply online for this position visit www.abdn.ac.uk/jobs

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 05 January 2025.

The Directorate of Research & Innovation embraces a diverse working environment and recognises the many benefits this can bring.  Applications from individuals from across all of the equality protected characteristics are encouraged.

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