Head of Research Development: University of Leeds
Would you like to support world leading research and help academics to secure investments for their new ideas from national funding streams? Are you a confident leader capable of building an excellent team that leads effective working relationships with leading academics and major UK research funders?
The University’s Academic Strategic Plan (2020-2030) aims to create a research culture and environment that places the University of Leeds at the centre of a global research and innovation community, delivering truly transformational fundamental and challenge-led research that advances knowledge and creates solutions to local, national and global challenges. Within this creating an environment and culture that supports a diverse, ambitious cohort of researchers and research staff and building our reputation for high quality challenge-led, interdisciplinary research underpinned by our disciplinary fundamental research strengths is seen as essential. We have a strong track record in securing longer and larger strategic awards and Leeds is in the top 10 for UKRI funding.
The Head of Research Development will manage and lead the UK Research Development Team. This is a key team within the Research and Innovation Service that leads on the University’s relationships with the UK Research Councils and National Academies and plays a key role in positioning the University to respond to major funding opportunities that align with our capabilities. The Head of Research Development will report to the Director of Research and Innovation Development and will work closely with the Head of Innovation and Business Development (who leads on our interactions with Innovate UK, collaborations with companies and the Innovation Strategy) and the Heads of European Research Development and Global Research Development, to provide leadership to the members of the wider Research and Innovation Development team.
Playing a key role in leading the development and implementation of strategic plans for UK funded research development, you will proactively develop new research opportunities across the University, horizon-scan, gather intelligence and develop relationships to influence UK funders’ priorities and capitalise on such opportunities. You will establish and manage high level relationships with a wide range of world leading academics, and research and innovation support staff, across the University and will build strong relationships with funding bodies, particularly the research councils within UKRI.
Possessing a relevant degree (or equivalent) in Sciences, Social Sciences, Technology or Engineering, and with relevant research knowledge gained via a PhD or equivalent experience in industry or academia, you will have capability in developing research and innovation strategies in complex organisations, excellent project management skills, and the ability to build effective and value creating partnerships.
You will work with colleagues across the University to provide a coordinated service across the full range of research support.
To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:
Dr Ceri Williams, Director of Research and Innovation Development, Research and Innovation Service
Email: c.j.r.williams@leeds.ac.uk
Please note: If you are not a British or Irish citizen, from 1 January 2021 you will require permission to work in the UK. This will normally be in the form of a visa but, if you are an EEA/Swiss citizen and resident in the UK before 31 December 2020, this may be your passport or status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
Location: Leeds – Main Campus
Faculty/Service: Professional Services
School/Institute: Research & Innovation Service
Category: Professional & Managerial
Grade: Grade 9
Salary: £51,799 to £60,022 p.a.
Post Type: Full Time
Contract Type: Ongoing
Release Date: Monday 07 February 2022
Closing Date: Monday 28 February 2022
Reference: CSRIS1222