Public Involvement and Engagement Manager

About the role

The Oxford Vaccine Group (OVG), within the University of Oxford's Department of Paediatrics, is seeking to appoint a creative and organised Public Involvement and Engagement Manager to manage and carry out the portfolio of engagement activities at OVG.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in shaping how science connects with society. You will ensure that the voices and lived experiences of participants and the wider public are embedded across OVG's research portfolio, from the earliest stages of study design through to sharing results and impact.

The post holder will develop, deliver, and evaluate innovative public involvement and engagement activities that help to strengthen trust, inclusion, and understanding around vaccine research. You will work closely with OVG researchers, clinical trial teams, external partners, and alongside the wider communication and engagement team to create inspiring and accessible engagement initiatives and materials.

This role involves oversight of OVG's Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement group (PPIE), working with our public contributors, coordinating events, producing reports, and supporting outreach activities, including writing content for the Vaccine Knowledge web

You will be working in a growing department within the Medical Sciences Division. The Department of Paediatrics is a world leader in child health research and hosts internationally renowned research programmes in drug development, gastroenterology, haematology, HIV, immunology, neuroimaging, neuromuscular diseases and vaccinology. The Oxford Vaccine Group is a world-leading academic research group conducting clinical and translational studies to advance vaccine development working with a diverse portfolio funded by industry, government and charitable organisations.

This position is offered full-time on a fixed-term contract initially for two years with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available. Part-time applications may be considered (with a minimum of 30 weekly hours). The postholder is expected to work on site 2–3 days a week.

About the department

The Department of Paediatrics is committed to equality and valuing diversity. The Department of Paediatrics has been honoured with the Athena Swan Gold award, a national gender equality charter, recognising the Department's innovative policies and practices. We are committed to the professional development of our staff by providing up to ten paid days annually for skill enhancement and allowing applications for additional training funding. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking department.

We welcome new staff with ideas who are willing to shape the future of the department that thinks about its staff and wellbeing. In addition to the University of Oxford wellbeing resources, the Department of Paediatrics sponsors weekly exercise classes such as yoga and bootcamp sessions as well as a choir. For staff on work visas, we also offer financial assistance towards visa renewal fees. These activities are designed to promote physical and mental wellbeing among staff members.

Please visit our website to find out more about the Department.

About you

You will hold a relevant degree, or have equivalent experience, and have demonstrable experience developing and delivering public involvement or engagement initiatives, ideally within a research, healthcare, or higher education setting. You will have a proven ability to communicate complex topics clearly and engagingly, with strong organisational and interpersonal skills and the ability to manage multiple projects involving diverse stakeholders.

An understanding of public sensitivities around vaccination or clinical research will be important, as will your ability to work strategically, creatively, and collaboratively to promote meaningful participation and impact.

Experience in communications, digital engagement, or partnership development is desirable, as is knowledge of vaccine research or clinical trials.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. The Supporting Statement should include a cover letter and should also clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description. Click here for information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement.

To discuss the post in more detail, please contact Charlie Firth, the Communication and Global Engagement Lead OVG, using the contact details below.

Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on 06 January 2026 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