Research Impact Manager (Maternity cover)

The Royal College of Art (RCA) is the most research-intensive art and design institution in the UK, known for its substantial portfolio of cutting-edge research grants, doctoral studentships, & industry-funded projects. We are seeking an enthusiastic Research Impact Manager to join our Research & Knowledge Exchange Office team to cover maternity, starting as soon as possible until September 2025 - (please note the role could end sooner if the substantive post holder returns earlier than expected). This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the RCA’s thriving research culture and support the delivery of impactful, world-leading research.

About the Role

As the Research Impact Manager, you will play a key role in supporting & enhancing the RCA’s research impact. Working closely with the Head of Research Development & academic colleagues, you will be instrumental in identifying, developing, and promoting the RCA’s research impact activities, particularly in preparation for the next Research Excellence Framework (REF) exercise. You will also lead on delivering the RCA’s Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Impact Acceleration Account (IAA).

This role offers a fantastic opportunity to work at the forefront of research impact within the art, design, & humanities sectors. If you are a proactive, strategic thinker with a passion for research impact and engagement, we want to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with academic & professional services colleagues to identify and maximise research impact across the RCA.
• Provide guidance on collecting, recording, & evaluating impact evidence.
• Assist in the development of high-quality impact case studies for the REF and other RCA publications.
• Support the RCA’s AHRC Impact Acceleration Account, managing a portfolio of internal funding opportunities, training, events, and PhD placements.
• Work with the Head of Research Development to build the RCA's impact culture and develop systems that support the collection of impact evidence.
• Engage with external networks and institutions to share best practices and insights in research impact.

About You

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual with a strong background in research impact, preferably within the Higher Education sector.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Educated to degree level or equivalent experience.
• Proven knowledge and understanding of the Higher Education research impact landscape.
• Experience in supporting research and impact activities within a Higher Education context or research-based organisation.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with both academic and non-academic audiences.
• Excellent diplomacy, influencing, and negotiation skills, with experience in motivating colleagues.
• Strong organisational & project management skills, capable of managing conflicting priorities and deadlines.

Why Join Us?

• Be a part of the UK's leading art & design institution – work alongside world-renowned researchers and contribute to impactful, innovative projects.
• Engage with diverse, multidisciplinary teams – collaborate with experts across a range of fields, enhancing your skills and expanding your professional network.
• Shape the future of research impact – play a pivotal role in supporting the RCA’s strategic goals for research and innovation.

If you are ready to make a difference and contribute to the RCA’s exciting journey, we would love to hear from you!

Applications close at 11.59pm on 8 October 2024

Type / Role:

Subject Area(s):

Location(s):