Head of Research + Innovation

We are looking for a skilled and enthusiastic leader to oversee and drive research and innovation funding at Asthma + Lung UK, shaping our funding strategy and maximising impact for people with respiratory diseases.

Asthma + Lung UK is the only charity in the UK fighting for everyone with a lung condition, aiming for a world where everyone can breathe with healthy lungs. We fund cutting-edge research and provide advice and support for the 12 million people who will get a lung condition during their lifetime. We also campaign for clean air and for better NHS diagnosis and treatment.

Reporting to the Director of Research + Innovation, you’ll drive delivery of our current Research + Innovation Strategy, launch transformative 2028 priorities and oversee our Respiratory Insights service. You will build partnerships, secure co-funding, and inspire a team to generate income, influence policy, and advance lung health outcomes while championing patient need and evidence.

To be successful in this role, you will be a strategic and influential leader with significant experience of managing research and innovation programmes, developing funding strategies and building successful partnerships. You will combine strong scientific knowledge and analytical skills with commercial awareness, excellent stakeholder management abilities and a passion for improving outcomes for people living with respiratory disease. Experience of working with academic stakeholders, managing complex projects and leading high-performing teams will be essential.

As well as a competitive salary, you’ll enjoy a range of benefits including 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), membership of a health cash plan, employee assistance programme, cycle-to-work scheme, interest-free annual season Travelcard loan and pension scheme. This is a fantastic opportunity to join an organisation committed to being the driving force behind the transformation of lung health.

Closing date: 23:59 pm on Sunday, 12 July 2026.  

Please apply via the ‘Apply’ button above.