Research Excellence Framework Project Manager

About the role

Are you an experienced project manager with a passion for data and research strategy? Are you confident working with complex datasets and communicating insights to diverse stakeholders? Join Imperial College London as the Research Excellence Framework (REF) Project Manager and play a pivotal role in shaping our REF 2029 submission. Building on our REF 2021 success as the UK’s top university for research outputs and research environment, this role offers an opportunity to lead data analysis, manage cross-university projects, and contribute directly to one of the most important research assessments in UK higher education.

What you would be doing

As the REF Project Manager, you will lead the planning, coordination and delivery of Imperial’s REF 2029 submission elements. You’ll oversee rigorous data analysis and the creation of insightful reports and dashboards that showcase Imperial’s research excellence, working collaboratively with stakeholders across the University. You will contribute to the development of institutional and disciplinary level REF statements and provide expert interpretation of REF guidance, advising on university policy implications. You will support governance activities by preparing briefings, presenting at key committees, and ensure data is audit-ready and compliant with REF requirements. You will line manage a REF Senior Planning Analyst, contributing to building a strong, collaborative team to deliver a world-class submission.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented individual who thrives in a research-intensive and collaborative environment. To be successful in the role, you will:

• Have proven project management experience delivering complex, multi-stakeholder projects on time and to a high standard.
• Be skilled in analysing large datasets and visualising key themes clearly, ideally with experience using PowerBI or similar data visualisation tools.
• Be confident interpreting and communicating data insights to varied audiences, both verbally and in writing.
• Possess excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied workload under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Be a collaborative team player with excellent interpersonal skills, able to build and maintain strong working relationships.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to start or continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
• Work with a great Planning and Insight team with the opportunity to build connections across the university.
• Benefit from a sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
• Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities and cycle-to-work scheme.
• Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further information

This role is offered as a full-time, fixed-term contract until 31 July 2029.

This position could be an opportunity for an internal secondment, with approval from your current line manager.

Interviews for selected candidates are expected to take place during the week commencing 29 September 2025. You may be asked to complete a written task and/or give a presentation as part of the selection process.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact:
Dr Celeste van den Bosch, c.vandenbosch@imperial.ac.uk.

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