Trusted Research Partner

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £47,389 to £56,535 with potential progression once in post to £63,606

Background

Trusted Research Team

The Trusted Research Team is a specialist function within the Research Strategy & Services Division (RSSD), providing expert support on the legal and regulatory dimensions of secure and responsible research. The team plays a central role in helping the University navigate complex frameworks such as Export Control, the National Security & Investment Act, the Nagoya Protocol, and research-related due diligence. Working closely with senior academic leaders and colleagues across RSSD, the team advises on individual cases, contributes to the development of institutional policies, and leads training and awareness activities. Its work is central to strengthening the University's research control environment and supporting a proportionate, risk-based approach to regulatory compliance.

Role Summary

The Trusted Research Partner (TRP) will play a leading role in shaping and supporting the University’s approach to research security and compliance. Reporting to the Assistant Director RSSD (Head of Contracts Policy & Compliance) and working closely with the College Hub Leadership Teams, the TRP will provide expert advice on key regulatory frameworks, including Export Control, the National Security & Investment Act, the Nagoya Protocol and due diligence. This senior post will support the development of policy and practice across RSSD, contribute to institutional training and risk mitigation, and work in close partnership with senior academic leaders. The role is particularly suited to candidates with experience of supporting STEM disciplines in a research support or governance setting, and who are confident in engaging with scientific content and advising on regulatory considerations in a dynamic, research-intensive environment.

Main Duties

• Work closely with the Assistant Director RSSD and College Hub leadership teams to shape and embed the University’s internal framework for Trusted Research. This includes developing practical tools and policies to support compliance with legislation such as Export Control, the Nagoya Protocol, and funder due diligence requirements.
• Act as a key contact for Trusted Research queries—reviewing cases, supporting referrals to ECJU and RCAT, and drafting export licence applications where needed. Offer clear, pragmatic advice to senior academic and professional services leaders on risks and possible mitigations linked to international collaborations, data security, and strategic contracts.
• Take a lead role in reviewing and refining processes, ensuring that policies remain responsive to emerging risks and regulatory changes. Proactively liaise with stakeholders to maintain up-to-date guidance and demonstrable compliance across all core areas of the Trusted Research agenda.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience

• Educated to degree level or with equivalent professional experience gained in a research-intensive or regulatory environment.
• Proven experience of supporting academic research in a governance, compliance, or risk management role, ideally within STEM disciplines.
• Experience of providing senior specialist support to complex issues relating to legal compliance and regulatory functions including assessing risk, with an ability to disseminate that expertise to others to ensure understanding and compliance at all levels of the University;

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Amelia Petch (a.petch@bham.ac.uk)

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

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