Research Manager
Job Type: Full-Time.
Starting Salary: £57785 - £69365 per annum plus benefits
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About the role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a talented Research Manager to join the Grantham Institute, working closely with the Director of Operations and Director of Research on the strategic development and management of Institute research activities. This is a broad role that spans the identification of key funding opportunities, developing effective collaborations with stakeholders across academia, government and business, and managing the preparation of high-quality grant proposals. The role also has responsibility for managing the complex portfolio of funded projects within the Institute. This requires building strong relationships with a variety of funders and partners as well as internal support functions, and excellent financial management.
We are looking for a someone with an in-depth knowledge of Higher Education processes and systems, with experience in research development and administration. You will be flexible, self-motivated and work well as part of a team, have excellent interpersonal and communications skills, and have a keen curiosity about climate change and the environment.
What you would be doing
- Work with the Director of Research and other academic staff to develop a research strategy that aligns with the aims and objectives of the Institute.
- Lead and develop the Grantham Affiliates scheme for staff across Imperial.
- Build strategic relationships with funders in the public and private sector.
- Develop and maintain an understanding of the research landscape and funders relevant to the Grantham Institute's remit, identify relevant funding opportunities and support bid applications.
- Manage the preparation of proposal budgets, ensuring grants are costed appropriately.
- Manage the Grantham Institute's complex research and innovation portfolio, including pre- and post-award processes.
- Monitor active projects, forecast spend, ensure overheads are on track and resources are allocated appropriately. As required, initiate recruitment processes and manage staff contracts.
- Provide project management support for key high-profile initiatives such as the Climate Damage Tracker.
- Act as primary management contact with the project sponsors.
- Attend meetings and events internally and externally as required to represent and promote the research interests of the Grantham Institute and Imperial.
- Line-manage the research and project support administrator.
What we are looking for
- Educated to at least degree level in a relevant discipline or have equivalent experience, with an interest in climate-related issues.
- Knowledge of the UK HEI environment including common research funders and FEC.
- Experience of managing relationships with researchers, funders and stakeholders in business and government.
- Experience in preparation and costing of bids and/or grant proposals.
- Strong financial and budgetary management experience.
- Experience in managing projects with multiple partners in an academic and/or technical environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strategic thinking with an ability to identify new opportunities for research support and development.
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and electronic finance / database systems.
- Ability to work well under pressure, to manage competing priorities, deadlines, and a diverse workload.
What we can offer you
- Work in a dynamic and collaborative environment at the Grantham Institute, within a community dedicated to making meaningful impact.
- The opportunity to take the lead in shaping and evolving this function with your own ideas.
- Continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
- Benefit from a sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days' annual leave and generous pension schemes).
- Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities and cycle-to-work scheme.
- Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
Further information
This is a full-time, fixed term position for three years (with possibility of renewal). Hybrid working is possible, but the expectation is at least 50% time in the office.
If you are thinking about applying for this job and want to discuss it further, please contact Grantham Institute Director of Operations Laila Read l.read@imperial.ac.uk
Should you have any queries about the application process, please contact Eva Konstantara, e.konstantara@imperial.ac.uk
We expect to interview in early June.