Head of Research Funding Development

Research Funding Development

Location:  Highfield Campus
Salary:   £56,048 to £69,961 Per annum
Full Time Permanent
Closing Date:  Wednesday 28 June 2023
Interview Date:   To be confirmed
Reference:  2330423TW

Would you like to support world leading research and help academics to secure funding for their new ideas from national and international funding sources?  Are you a confident leader capable of building an excellent team that leads effective working relationships with leading academics and major research funders?

Our Research strategic plan aims to create the environment that places the University of Southampton at the centre of a global research and innovation community, delivering world-class fundamental and challenge-led research that advances knowledge and creates solutions to local, national and global challenges. 

The Head of Research Funding Development will lead the Research Funding Development Team within Research and Innovation Services.  The team leads on the University’s relationships with our key research funders (both UK and international) and plays a key role in positioning the University to respond to major funding opportunities that align with our capabilities. The Head of Research Development will report to the Director of Research Strategy and Funding and will work closely with the Head of Research and Enterprise Finance, to provide leadership and support the sustainable growth of our research income.

Playing a key role in leading the development and implementation of strategic plans for externally funded research, you will proactively develop new research opportunities across the University, horizon-scan, gather intelligence and develop relationships to influence funders’ priorities and capitalise on such opportunities.  You will establish and manage high level relationships with a wide range of world leading academics, and research and innovation support staff, across the University and will build strong relationships with funding bodies, particularly the research councils within UKRI.

Possessing a degree (or equivalent) and with thorough knowledge of the UK funding landscape and research lifecycle gained via a PhD or equivalent experience in industry or academia, you will have capability in developing research funding strategies in complex organisations, excellent project management skills, and the ability to build effective and value creating partnerships.

Research and Innovation Services (RIS) support academic and research staff fulfil their research and enterprise objectives by providing expert advice and assistance in research funding, bid support and management, collaborations with industry and other strategic partners as well as the protection and commercialisation of intellectual property. 

The University of Southampton is a research-driven institution, home to some of the world’s leading minds, expanding our knowledge, and passing it on to future generations. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse culture at the University and creating an environment where people can balance successful careers with their commitments and interests outside of work.  Our flexible working practices, including a hybrid working model, where employees can split their working time between the office and home, support our belief that this balance brings long-lasting benefits for our institution as well as our people.

We believe equality and diversity are fundamental to making the University of Southampton a vibrant, proud and successful organisation.  A diverse workforce, with people from different racial, educational and social backgrounds and a range of ages, opens up a wealth of possibilities for Southampton.

For an informal discussion about this post, please contact Mylène Ployaert, Director Research Strategy and Funding, email: mgsp@soton.ac.uk.

Application Procedure

The application deadline is midnight on the closing date stated above. Please include your CV and a Cover Letter.  If you need assistance, call Recruitment on  +44 (0) 23 8059 2750, or email recruitment@soton.ac.uk. Quote the advert reference 2330423TW on all correspondence.