Research Environment and Policy Manager

At the University of Birmingham, we're not just shaping minds, we're transforming futures through groundbreaking research and innovation. Our institution thrives in the heart of a diverse and vibrant city, fostering open, critical thinking and the dissemination of knowledge on a global scale. Join us in our mission to provide an exceptional education to our students and make a lasting impact on the world.

Professional Services play a crucial role in providing outstanding support to our researchers, enabling an exceptional educational experience for our students, and helping the University to influence regionally, nationally, and globally.

The Research Strategy and Support Services Division (RSSD) is a new Professional Services department, providing a transformative and sector-leading approach to research strategy and support. The Research Environment and Policy Team works collaboratively across the Division, managing the University’s REF and KEF submissions, supporting the Open Research agenda, monitoring external Research policy developments, and enhancing our Research Culture.

Role summary

As a Research Environment and Policy Manager, you'll be a trusted expert within the RSSD and across our Colleges. Your primary focus will be providing invaluable guidance on all aspects of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) strategy. You'll join a team that leads the University's REF and KEF submissions, shaping our approach to research assessment and knowledge exchange. Your expertise will be crucial in guiding the development of the University's research culture, ensuring that we continue to excel in our academic endeavors. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to collaborate on discrete cross-institutional projects with the Senior Research Leadership Team, contributing to the ongoing advancement of our research initiatives.

Main Duties

• Provide expert advice on all elements of the REF strategy, acting as a point of contact for academic leads and Professional Services colleagues.
• Coordinate all narrative and data components of the University’s REF submission, ensuring compliance with established timelines and processes.
• Support the University’s annual KEF submission and monitor policy related to Knowledge Exchange and funding.
• Monitor external research policy developments and provide timely updates to appropriate audiences.
• Collaborate on cross-institutional projects with the Senior Research Leadership Team, contributing to the advancement of research initiatives.
• Deputize for the Assistant Director as appropriate and provide secretarial support to relevant committees.

Person Specification

• Educated to Degree level with evidence of self-directed research or empathy with the research process.
• Proven ability to meet targets and deadlines, with excellent communication skills.
• Strong numerical and IT skills, including data manipulation and presentation using standard Microsoft products.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to develop strong working relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience in project management and committee organization, with a focus on championing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

Informal enquiries to Elizabeth Westlake, email: e.westlake@bham.ac.uk 

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment

We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.

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