Head of Research Funding

Do you have senior research funding experience with corporates, trusts and foundations? Do you want to play a major part in making a significant impact on the advancement of global medical research into epilepsy?

The Epilepsy Society is the only UK epilepsy charity conducting its own research and is realising a vision to transform the lives of people with epilepsy through world-class research, advocacy, and care. As part of its ambitious strategy, the charity is looking to accelerate its fundraising capacity, securing support for innovative, cutting-edge research being undertaken at the Epilepsy Society through key academic posts and active research programmes.

As Head of Research, reporting to the Fundraising and Marketing Director, you’ll be responsible for the development and successful implementation of our funding Research Strategy. You’ll provide vital leadership, strategic direction and day-to-day management of our research, trusts and partnership income streams during an exciting phase of our development.

This varied role also involves nurturing and maintaining strategically relevant partnerships, driving grant round applications, developing a new research strategy and acting as a key ambassador, inspiring external contacts and internal teams about our research programme and opportunities to fund. The Epilepsy Society is seeking an exceptional Head of Research Funding who can convert our research ambitions into financial and benefit in kind donations and widen our funding opportunities.

Whilst many funding opportunities will come from government sources, grant providers, and the pharmaceutical industry, the role holder will also manage a team responsible for generating income from foundations and partners with aligned objectives and high-net-worth individuals. As Head of Research Funding, the post-holder will work closely with leading clinicians, researchers, and academic partners from University College London (UCL) and University College London Hospitals (UCLH), ensuring that our research has the greatest possible impact.

You should hold an advanced degree and/or significant experience in this field and will demonstrate experience in grant writing, preferably in a scientific, research, and/or higher education environment. You will bring strong research, analytical and communication skills, with the ability to synthesise complex information into clear and compelling written proposals and spoken presentations. Knowledge of funding bodies, grant application processes, and research funding trends would be very helpful. You will have an interest in science and the ability to learn about epilepsy/neurosciences/general medical sciences and be confident in promoting the work of the Epilepsy Society to funders and prospects at all levels.

This is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside scientists, researchers and an ambitious fundraising team to drive income generation, broaden the charity’s reach, and accelerate cutting-edge advancements in epilepsy research and treatment.

To apply, please send a CV and covering letter, of no more than 2 sides highlighting why you feel you are right for the role to epilepsysociety@minervasearch.com by close of business on Friday 21^st February 2025.

Advert information