SPECTRUM Knowledge Broker

The Post

The Knowledge Broker will play a key role in delivering enhanced impact from SPECTRUM research through enhanced collaboration between SPECTRUM and public health agencies and policymakers, particularly in Scotland, and other mechanisms.  The role involves gaining a strategic understanding of the research conducted by SPECTRUM teams and the interests and concerns of senior research users, in order to broker strong, sustainable and effective relationships between the two by building knowledge and understanding, establishing evidence within policy discussions, and facilitating policy changes.   The post holder will report to Prof. Niamh Fitzgerald, SPECTRUM Deputy Director for Impact. They will work closely with a corresponding SPECTRUM Knowledge Broker (to be appointed) based within the Office of Health Improvement and Disparities in the UK Department of Health and Social Care, the SPECTRUM Consortium Manager (Sancha Martin), the Communications and Engagement Officer (Jess Conway), SPECTRUM Co-Investigator, Dr. Garth Reid, at Public Health Scotland, SPECTRUM Director, Professor Linda Bauld and others.

They will be responsible for planning and building strategic and practical links between SPECTRUM research teams and stakeholders/decision makers in policy and practice in Scotland, in particular, but not limited to, Public Health Scotland, Scottish Government and key advocacy groups in Scotland.  They will be required to horizon scan for policy opportunities, lead SPECTRUM responses to relevant government consultations or proposals, broaden our networks to groups beyond health (e.g. community planning), and identify events and opportunities to engage and influence relevant stakeholders.

They will support research teams and research users prepare and deliver on co-production of knowledge whilst further developing SPECTRUM’s theory of change.  The post holder will sit on the Impact Group of SPECTRUM and will play a lead role in delivery of stakeholder events, topic-focused knowledge exchange workshops, and public engagement panels to enhance the impact of our research. There will be the opportunity to contribute to SPECTRUM research and publications where relevant to the post holder’s interests and skills, where capacity permits, interpreting findings obtained from and developing new insights.

Description of Duties

• Working alongside Prof. Niamh Fitzgerald (Deputy Director with responsibility for Impact), take a lead role in brokering policy impact from SPECTRUM research in Scotland
• Lead and develop relationships between SPECTRUM researchers and relevant teams within Public Health Scotland and with policy teams across Scottish Government, by sharing knowledge of current work programmes and priorities, horizon scanning and facilitating the co-development of new research projects or collaborations to meet emerging strategic priorities
• Facilitate and arrange meetings and workshops to bring together SPECTRUM and external stakeholders as above

Essential Criteria

Qualifications

• Educated to at least Masters level in a relevant subject area OR relevant work experience

Knowledge & Experience

• Significant relevant experience in leading knowledge exchange and/or policy advocacy ideally in public health or a related field
• Experience of developing relationships at senior level with partners both within and outside of academia including senior decision-makers in advocacy and government

For further information, including a full description of duties, essential criteria and details on how to apply, please see Vacancy details | About | University of Stirling

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