This is a fixed term position for 12 months. The role is based at Alderley Park, with the flexibility to work remotely for part of the working week. Based at Alderley Park, Medicines Discovery Catapult is a national facility connecting the UK community to accelerate innovative drug discovery. We provide unique scientific capabilities and act as a gateway to UK resources and expertise, supporting UK SMEs to drive the development and industrialisation of new approaches for the discovery of new medicines. By validating new ways of discovering medicines and driving key talent and expertise across the sector, we will support the UK life sciences industry, SMEs and innovators to deliver growth for the UK economy and maintain the UK’s heritage position as a global leader in medicines R&D. Ultimately, new industrialised technologies are vital for delivering new medicines to patients, faster. We are looking for the very best people to join the Medicines Discovery Catapult team in driving the UK to the forefront of commercial success for medicines discovery, committing to place the patient at the beginning of discovery and helping the sector move faster to the patient. The values of the Catapult are: Excellence – we continually strive to deliver the best solutions for our partners and for each other. In everything we do, we instil confidence. Integrity – Our strong commitment to what we do and why we are here drives us to do the right thing for our partners and each other. Community – We’re a strong team, we work well together, and we respect each other. Innovation - We’re driven by the need to make a difference. We constantly look for ways to drive change in our sector and how we work. Role purpose The Dementia Mission Partnership Manager will play a crucial role in supporting the Dementia Mission, particularly focusing on the secretariat role for the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). This position involves managing the SAB’s activities, ensuring alignment with the broader strategy of the Mission, and providing essential support to the MDC team. Collaboration, communication, attention to detail, and stakeholder management are critical for this role. The Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Mission is a unique initiative launched by the UK government to accelerate the discovery and development of new treatments and diagnostics for dementia. This Mission aims to transform the approach to dementia research, leveraging cutting-edge scientific advancements and fostering collaboration across academia, industry, and healthcare sectors. The primary focus is on improving the lives of individuals affected by dementia through innovative research, early diagnosis, and effective treatment options. Medicines Discovery Catapult (MDC) serves as the setup delivery partner for the Dementia Mission. Located at Alderley Park, MDC collaborates with academic institutions, industry leaders, and medical research charities to develop novel approaches for discovering future medicines. One of the Catapult centres established by Innovate UK, MDC is dedicated to driving innovation and growth within the UK’s life sciences sector. In its role within the Dementia Mission, MDC is responsible for coordinating the setup and operational delivery of the Mission’s key initiatives, including managing the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). This involves facilitating collaborations, ensuring alignment with the Mission’s strategic objectives, and supporting various stakeholders to accelerate the progress of dementia research and treatment development. We are recruiting a Dementia Mission Partnership Manager, Neuroscience with a strong research and stakeholder management background. Essential to the role are strong relationship management and organisation skills, underpinned by a relevant scientific background and research programme management expertise. Reporting to the Strategy Leader - Neuroscience and working closely with the MDC Dementia Mission team, the Partnership Manager will be responsible mainly but not exclusively for managing the delivery of the SAB of the Mission. They will have an important role in engaging with existing and prospective partners, liaising with the Funders of the Mission, with colleagues involved in activities linked to and facilitated by the Mission, and external stakeholders including medical research charities, the life sciences industry, and academia. In addition, the role will involve close working with MDC colleagues in the Discovery, Virtual R&D, Operations, and Business Engagement teams to ensure timely support and delivery of activities linked to the Mission. Main duties and responsibilities Manage all activities related to the operational delivery of the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). Coordinate SAB meetings, including preparing agendas, taking and writing minutes, and following up on action items. Ensure that SAB activities align with the broader strategy of the Dementia Mission. Facilitate communication and collaboration among SAB members, MDC colleagues, and external partners. Collaborate with the Strategy Lead and the MDC team to support various tasks related to the Dementia Mission. Assist in the development and implementation of strategies that align with the Mission’s objectives. Provide support for promotional events, such as conferences, webinars, and workshops, to raise awareness of the Mission’s activities. Act as the primary point of contact for SAB members and other external partners. Build and maintain robust relationships with stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and collaboration. Engage proactively with stakeholders to gather insights and feedback to inform the Chair of the SAB on any initiative and activity that could influence and affect Dementia Mission’s strategy. Essential qualifications, experience and knowledge A relevant degree in biomedical science (e.g., biology, pharmacology, neuroscience). Proven experience in managing and delivering large research programmes and project portfolios involving multiple organisations. Experience in neuroscience research, either in the bio-pharmaceutical industry or an academic setting. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence senior individuals. Exceptional organisational skills, including attention to detail. Strong problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environment. Proactive, self-motivated, flexible, and enthusiastic team player who can also work independently. Desirable qualifications, experience and knowledge A PhD in a relevant biomedical science (e.g., biology, pharmacology, medicinal chemistry). Experience working with industry, including contract research and research delivery organisations. Experience organising and delivering scientific events such as symposia, workshops, or webinars. Closing date : Thursday 28th November 2024 Please note the closing date for applications may be brought forward if a high volume of applications are received.