Research and Innovation Manager

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Contract Type: Fixed Term (24 months)

Aston University is seeking a highly organised and motivated Research and Innovation Manager to support delivery of the AeroVault Project, an Innovate UK–funded collaboration involving academic, industrial, and international partners. Working within the Department of Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering, the postholder will coordinate project activities across technical development, commercial engagement, and partner integration to ensure successful completion of project milestones and compliance with funder requirements.

The role involves managing project planning, monitoring budgets and risk registers, and supporting financial, contractual, and governance responsibilities. The postholder will liaise closely with UK and Ukrainian partners, lead engagement with the Innovate Ukraine Accelerator Programme, and contribute to technology readiness assessment, market analysis, and route-to-market planning. Responsibilities also include overseeing procurement and logistics, coordinating dissemination activity, supporting intellectual property management, and maintaining strong relationships with industry, government, and community stakeholders to maximise impact.

Applicants must hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physical Sciences, or a related technical discipline. They should demonstrate experience in managing research, innovation, or technology-development projects, including work within multi-partner or international consortia, and have experience engaging with industry partners to translate research outputs into practical or commercial applications. Strong organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills are essential.

Desirable attributes include formal project-management training (e.g., PRINCE2 or APM), experience with Innovate UK or UKRI projects, involvement in commercialisation activities, and familiarity with IP management, accelerator programmes, and technology-transfer processes.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to an ambitious research and innovation programme focused on advancing cutting-edge energy and storage technologies with real-world deployment potential.

Further details:
Job Details
University Information

Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University’s commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate’s name and address will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process.

The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions. 

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.  It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications

While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk.

Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Thursday 25 December 2025

Interview Date: Thursday 01 January 2026

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