Academic Research Director

2 days ago

Swindon, Swindon, United Kingdom UK Research and Innovation Full time
Head of Research and Policy

Location: Hybrid, with base office in Swindon
Band: UKRI Band F
Contract: Open-Ended
Hours: Full time or part time

About UK Research and Innovation

Our mission is to unlock the power of data to drive innovation and improve lives.

Smart data is a powerful tool for scientific research, and we're committed to making it accessible and trustworthy. Our programme aims to provide researchers with safe and secure access to smart data, while safeguarding public trust and building capability for cutting-edge data-driven research.

The Head of Research and Policy is a strategic leadership role based in our Strategic Hub, where you will join the senior management team. You will set strategic direction, shaping an innovative programme of research initiatives, investments, and partnerships to stimulate cutting-edge data science with clear public benefits.

You'll develop a policy function, scanning the horizon to ensure our work connects with key government missions, and commissioning legal and ethical advice. The role involves building networks with a broad range of stakeholders, often bridging between academic, government, and commercial sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Shaping and leading a programme of investment to demonstrate the value of smart data research to address real-world challenges across our four research themes.
  • Developing partnerships with government users of data and research, connecting government missions and public policy challenges to the capabilities within our infrastructure.
  • Overseeing development and delivery of a data policy function, including scoping and securing appropriate legal and ethical resources for the programme.
  • Contributing to the development of strategies and activities led by other parts of the UKRI Hub, including data infrastructures, capability, and public engagement.

Requirements:

  • Highly developed strategic skills, including the ability to map the landscape, identify and prioritise opportunities, translate complex problems into actionable projects, evaluate options, and make effective decisions.
  • Experience of building and maintaining effective networks with different communities to deliver outcomes.
  • Understanding and experience of the use of data, analysis, or research.
  • Understanding and experience of the UK data policy landscape, including governance, legislation, and ethics.
  • An understanding of the UK academic funding environment.

What We Offer:

We're committed to a level playing field and recognise the value of diverse skills and experience. We offer a flexible working environment, with a commitment to 1-2 days per month on site. Travel within the UK and possibly overseas is also expected. We have a strong commitment to the welfare of our people, and we take wellbeing and work-life balance seriously.

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