We are seeking an experienced and proactive Senior Research Manager to oversee a high-profile portfolio of clinical and applied health research infrastructure funding schemes for the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). These schemes are instrumental in transforming research breakthroughs into life-saving treatments, fostering innovation, and maintaining the UK’s global competitiveness in experimental medicine and applied health research.
About the Role
Reporting to a Programme Lead and collaborating with the Assistant Director of Research Infrastructure and the Department of Health and Social Care, you will:
* Shape Strategy: Develop the strategic direction of funding schemes and future competitions
* Deliver Excellence: Lead funding calls, oversee award management, and ensure effective delivery
* Drive Collaboration: Engage with internal and external stakeholders to promote impact, collaborative working, and other priorities
* Support the Research Community: Provide advice and guidance to researchers while fostering productive relationships across academia and the scientific community
What We’re Looking For
You’ll bring a strong understanding of academia, funding, project management, and health-related policy. With exceptional organizational skills, you’ll thrive in managing multiple priorities and influencing stakeholders. Critical thinking, relationship-building, and a meticulous approach to project delivery are essential.
Key Responsibilities:
* Shape Funding Strategy: Drive the strategic direction of funding schemes by reviewing and improving their scope, process, and impact to guide future calls.
* Lead Research Commissioning: Oversee funding competitions with precision, including project planning, crafting guidance documents, coordinating international panels, and providing feedback to applicants.
* Develop New Calls: Collaborate with DHSC/NIHR to design and deliver new funding priorities, ensuring effective assessment and monitoring processes.
* Engage Stakeholders: Support the research community in managing infrastructure awards while raising scheme visibility within academic, clinical, public, and government spheres. Foster collaboration among award holders to maximize impact.
* Monitor and Report: Manage contract changes, handle information requests (e.g., FOI, Parliamentary Questions), and review annual progress reports to ensure milestones are met and address concerns.
* Team Support: Provide flexible assistance across the team during peak times, with opportunities for personal development through role rotation.
Experience and Qualifications
Essential Criteria:
* Qualifications: PhD (or equivalent) in biomedical/health sciences or significant relevant sector experience
* Experience: Substantial experience in research funding allocation processes within research funding bodies, NHS, HEIs, industry, or academia
* Strategic Insight: Demonstrated interest in health and care research funding and policy, with the ability to think strategically and see the “big picture”
* Project Management: Strong planning and organizational skills; capable of managing multiple tasks and meeting tight deadlines
* Communication: Skilled at presenting complex information clearly to diverse audiences across different seniority levels
* Teamwork: Proven ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively as part of a team
Desirable Criteria:
* Experience in line management and staff development
Salary & Benefits
* £47,300 - £49,900 per annum
* Bonus - subject to company performance
* 25 days annual leave, plus public holidays (UK)
* Enhanced contributory pension scheme
* Life Insurance
* Benenden Healthcare
* Season Ticket Loan
* Laptop, IT equipment and remote IT support
NB: This is a permanent, full time, office-based, hybrid role with an expectation for all employees to attend our offices a minimum of 4 days a month, usually worked as 1 day per week, and may increase, subject to team requirements.
To Apply
If you are interested in working with us and feel you have the appropriate background and skills, please apply with your CV, with the cover letter attached in the same document.
The closing date for applications is the 17th February 2025, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and this advert might close earlier.