Head of Operations for the MRC Centre of Research Excellence in Therapeutic Genomics
Department of Paediatrics, Institute of Developmental & Regenerative Medicine IDRM, Old Road Campus, Oxford
About the role
The MRC Centre of Research Excellence (CoRE) in Therapeutic Genomics at the University of Oxford is a new, ambitious, globally collaborative research program focused on pioneering genome-targeted therapies for rare genetic disorders. We are seeking an experienced Head of Operations to work with the MRC CoRE Director and Leadership Team on the strategy and operational aspects of this high-impact centre.
As Head of Operations, you will work closely with the MRC CoRE Director, Prof. Stephan Sanders, and the Leadership Team, guiding the MRC CoRE’s strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, financial oversight, and operational efficiency. You will play a critical role in advancing research culture, supporting academic and non-academic training and career paths, and ensuring high standards of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) across the MRC CoRE’s programs.
This position is offered full-time on a fixed-term contract until 31 December 2031. Part-time applications may be considered.
This role meets the criteria for a UK Skilled Worker visa.
Key responsibilities
* Strategic Planning and Oversight: Work with the Director and Leadership Team to design and deliver the MRC CoRE’s strategy, including program evaluation frameworks, research culture and training strategies, and stakeholder engagement plans.
* Operational Leadership: Oversee the Operational Support Team (OST), ensuring effective support for the MRC CoRE’s ambitious program.
* Stakeholder Engagement: Develop and maintain relationships with key partners, including funders, industry, patient advocacy groups, and regulatory bodies.
* Financial Management: Manage complex multimillion-pound budgets and resources, ensuring compliance with university and MRC policies.
* Research Culture and EDI Innovation: Champion initiatives that promote a positive, inclusive research culture and integrate EDI principles into daily operations and career-long training.
* Contract and IP Management: Liaise with the contracts team at Oxford and with academic and industry partners to support the commercialization of novel therapies developed at the MRC CoRE.
About the department
The Department of Paediatrics holds the Athena Swan Gold award, acknowledging the innovative policies and practices developed across the department. We encourage staff to develop their skills by offering all staff ten paid days of professional development each year and have a policy where staff can apply to receive funding for further training courses. For staff on work visas, we also offer financial assistance towards visa renewal fees.
About you
This is a highly collaborative position, so excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential. You will need to have a strong background in managing complex, multi-partner research programs. You will need to demonstrate significant expertise in strategic planning, program management, and financial oversight within a research or biomedical environment.
Diversity is a core value of our university, department, centre, and research groups. We encourage all applications.
Application process
You will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. We recommend that the supporting statement is formatted as a one- or two-page letter addressed to ‘the selection committee’ that describes how your skills and experience meet each of the selection criteria for the post and the reason for your interest in this centre and this role.
To discuss the post in more detail, please contact Stephan Sanders, MRC CoRE Director.
Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on Monday 20 January 2025 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.
The Department of Paediatrics offers an Interview Expense Reimbursement Policy in its efforts towards equality, diversity and inclusion. Should you be invited to interview, we will share further information about the policy at that stage.
Contact Person: Professor Stephan Sanders
Contact Email: stephan.sanders@paediatrics.ox.ac.uk
Vacancy ID: 174436
Closing Date & Time: 20-Jan-2025 12:00
Pay Scale: STANDARD GRADE 9
Salary (£): 55,636 - 64,228 with a discretionary range to £70,029 per annum (pro-rata)
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