Senior Research Excellence Manager (1.0FTE)

Glasgow Caledonian University is proudly one of the UK’s most dynamic and forward-thinking institutions. Recognised as a top modern university in Scotland across multiple national league tables, we’re making bold strides in education, research, and sustainability.

We’re not just climbing the rankings—we’re redefining what a modern university can achieve. With a strong commitment to social impact and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, GCU is expanding its research and knowledge exchange activities to deliver real-world change locally and globally.

This is an exciting time to join us. You’ll be part of a university that’s investing in its people, infrastructure, and partnerships to grow its research profile and deepen its engagement with industry, communities, and policymakers. If you’re passionate about making a difference through your work, GCU offers the platform and support to help you thrive.

You’ll be joining Research and Knowledge Exchange Services (RKES) – a newly established directorate that brings together expertise from across research operations, researcher development, and knowledge exchange. This integrated team is central to delivering GCU’s ambitious research and innovation agenda, supporting academic excellence and real-world impact.

As Senior Research Excellence Manager, you’ll play a key role in shaping how GCU delivers and demonstrates the quality and impact of its research. You’ll lead the operational coordination of the University’s external research reporting and review activities, including preparations for Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029. Working closely with academic leaders and professional services colleagues, you’ll help ensure the systems, processes and insights are in place to support a high-performing research environment. From managing internal peer review processes to driving continuous improvement initiatives, this role offers the opportunity to influence research culture and performance at an institutional level.

We’re looking for someone who brings both expertise and enthusiasm to the opportunity of advancing research excellence at GCU. You’ll have experience coordinating submissions to national research assessment exercises and a strong understanding of the wider research and knowledge exchange landscape. You’ll be someone who thrives in complex environments, balancing attention to detail with big-picture thinking, and who can calmly navigate competing priorities with professionalism and purpose. With excellent communication and interpersonal skills, you’ll be confident working across teams, influencing at all levels, and building strong relationships. If you’re passionate about continuous improvement, policy development, and helping shape a culture of research excellence, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Please ensure your application demonstrates how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description which can be found here: https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/education/glasgow-caledonian-university/jobs/senior-research-excellence-manager-10-fte-435613.  If you’d like an informal chat about the role or want to learn more, please contact Dr Alison McIntosh, Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange Services (RKES) at alison.mcintosh@gcu.ac.uk

You can apply for this role by clicking on the apply button above.

Advert information