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Head of Research Development

Head of Research Development

About Us:

Founded in 1837, the Royal College of Art is the world’s largest community of postgraduate art and design students. It is also the oldest art and design university in continuous operation and has been ranked as the world's number one art and design university for a remarkable nine consecutive years, according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 – the worldwide survey of academic and industry opinion.

The Royal College of Art is a leading institution dedicated to fostering innovation, research excellence, and knowledge exchange. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to join our team as the Head of Research Development.

Job Summary:

As the Head of Research Development, you will play a pivotal role in driving our research and innovation initiatives. This leadership position involves strategic planning, collaboration with stakeholders, securing research funding, and overseeing the development of major research grants and contracts. If you are a seasoned professional with a passion for research, innovation, and higher education, we invite you to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the development of major, complex research grants and contracts.

Secure research funding from diverse sources, demonstrating a successful track record.

Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to address key opportunities and challenges.

Manage pre-award and post-award processes, ensuring effective delivery and compliance with policies.

Provide strategic insights into the UK and international research funding environment.

Foster a culture of responsible research and innovation, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Lead and motivate a diverse team, managing staff at different levels of seniority.

Qualifications:

Degree level education; Postgraduate qualification preferred or equivalent experience.

Authoritative knowledge of the strategic issues impacting the research funding environment.

Proven experience in successfully leading the development of research grants and securing funding.

Well-developed negotiation, diplomacy, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Strong understanding of financial aspects of research and higher education management.

Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Proficient IT skills, including MS Office suite and research funder and institutional systems.

 This is a full time and permanent role, based at our state-of-the-art facility in Battersea.

Please see Information Pack for further details.

Application Deadline: 11.59pm on Sunday 4th February 2024

Interviews are expected to take place w/c 19th February 2024 

Vacancy Overview

Closing date: