Senior Research Excellence Framework (REF) Officer

Do you have strong experience of REF and a keen eye for detail, data and research quality? This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in shaping the University’s next Research Excellence Framework (REF) submission.

As Senior REF Officer, you will lead the planning and coordination of REF activity across the University, working closely with senior leaders, Unit of Assessment (UoA) teams and colleagues across Research and Innovation. You will contribute to the development of high-quality submissions, provide expert insight and ensure compliance with REF requirements.

As a Senior REF Officer you can expect to be involved in:

• Leading the planning and coordination of REF activity, ensuring delivery of a high-quality and compliant institutional submission
• Developing the Strategy, People and Research Culture narrative, working with senior stakeholders to shape and strengthen submissions
• Providing expert analysis, insight and scenario modelling to support decision-making and optimise REF outcomes
• Advising UoAs and senior colleagues on REF requirements, supporting best practice, compliance and continuous improvement

What will you bring to the role?

• Degree or equivalent professional experience, with strong knowledge of REF guidance and requirements 
• Experience of developing and reviewing REF submissions
• Strong analytical and strategic skills, with experience using data to inform decisions and develop recommendations
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to work collaboratively

What we can offer in return:

As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:

• Hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs) 
• 43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff)
• Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
• Corporate employee-funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health

For more information about what you can look forward to if you join us, visit our dedicated webpage: Working at Kent

We are ambitious for our people, our communities and the region we serve – join us in making the world a better place. Visit our website for more on who we are: http://www.kent.ac.uk/about/

Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact peopleserviceshr@kent.ac.uk quoting reference number BDRI-010-26.

Further details:
Job Description
Additional Information

*Occasionally we may need to close a vacancy before the published deadline due to a high number of applications being received, therefore we strongly advise you to submit your application as soon as possible. (All vacancies will be open for at least one week.)

PLEASE NOTE: We prioritise applications from current University of Kent redeployees. We will let you know if this post is to be filled by a redeployee as, in this instance, your application will unfortunately not be taken forward.

We know applicants may use AI tools to help prepare job applications. For guidance on how to use AI responsibly and effectively, see: Using AI in your job application

Applications must be made via the University’s online application system; CVs or details sent directly to the department or via email cannot be considered.

The University of Kent values diversity and equality at all levels.

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