Strategic Research Manager

About the role:

The Department of Chemical Engineering at Imperial College London is seeking an ambitious and proactive Strategic Research Manager to play a key role in strengthening the Department’s engagement with industry, government, and the wider innovation ecosystem as well as developing and implementing the research strategy for the Department.

This new position has been created to enhance the Department’s visibility, impact, and reputation as a global leader in translating world-class research into real-world applications. Working closely with academic and professional services colleagues, you will help position the Department as a preferred partner for industrial collaboration and innovation across critical areas such as the energy transition, sustainable manufacturing, healthcare technologies, and digital process systems.

This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the world’s leading engineering departments and contribute to shaping its industrial strategy, driving collaboration, and helping deliver tangible benefits to society.

What you would be doing:

In this role, you will:

• Identify, evaluate and target large-scale funding opportunities and undertake proactive and targeted dissemination of opportunities throughout the Department.
• Identify and develop new opportunities for collaboration, sponsorship, and innovation projects aligned with the Department’s research priorities.
• Support academic staff in translating research excellence into real-world and commercial impact, including assistance with funding/bidding proposals and REF impact case studies.
• Facilitate knowledge exchange activities, enabling two-way dialogue between industry and academia.
• Develop policies to ensure optimal costing and support for research bids.
• Develop communications and promotional materials to highlight the Department’s achievements and partnerships.
• Organising and managing a range of industry-focused events, such as seminars, workshops, industrial advisory boards, and networking sessions, will form an important part of the role.

What we are looking for:

We are seeking a candidate who combines strategic insight with excellent relationship-building skills and a strong understanding of industrial engagement in a research-driven environment.

You will have:

• PhD in engineering, science, or a related discipline (or equivalent professional experience).
• Experience working in or with higher education institutions
• Experience working in an academic, industrial, or research partnership environment.
• Proven track record in developing and managing partnerships between academia, industry, and/ or government.
• Demonstrated success in identifying, developing, and securing collaborative funding opportunities.
• Strong networking, communication, and influencing skills.
• A proactive, organised, and self-motivated approach to managing multiple projects and priorities.
• The ability to think strategically and analytically and identifying opportunities.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
• 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 is a full-time (35 hours per week), fixed-term contract for 36 months. The post is hybrid-working (3 days a week) at South Kensington Campus.

Interview date: 08-May-2026

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Anusha Sri-Pathmanathan, Director of Operations a.sri-pathmanathan@imperial.ac.uk

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