Head of Research Information and Systems

Research Strategy & Funding

Location:  Highfield Campus
Salary:   £57,696 to £72,018 per annum
Full Time Permanent
Closing Date:  Friday 06 October 2023
Interview Date:   To be confirmed
Reference:  2445923TW

Use your skills in strategy and analytics to generate exceptional research for a world-class university.

This is a valuable opportunity to shape the research performance of a Russell Group university. Joining our vibrant, agile Research and Innovation Services (RIS), you will lead on everything from improving our analytical tools to developing strategy for research assessment exercises and wider University strategies and plans. You will also help deliver timely, accurate research and enterprise management information to support our efforts, impacting all aspects of the University’s research performance from bibliometrics, to long term financial performance and beyond.

 You will join RIS at a particularly exciting time. The University of Southampton has launched its five- year strategy and RIS is in a dynamic growth phase, as is the University itself. We in RIS are proud of our immensely talented team that shares an open mindset and genuine ambition to contribute to enhancing the University’s research output and impact. At Southampton we offer a significant range of training and learning opportunities to help you maximise your skills and potential. 

 Leading your own team, you will source and deliver data on the University’s research and enterprise performance. You will be part of RIS leadership team contributing to the overall management of the Directorate as well as motivating and mentoring your staff. There is a considerable strategic aspect to the role, you will work with senior academic colleagues to develop a plan to respond to the next research assessment exercise including developing strong impact case studies. You will advise the Vice President for Research and Enterprise on REF2028 and be instrumental in managing the University's preparation and submission to REF2028.

To make the most of this unique role, you will need strong skills in analysis, strategy, communication and leadership. Experience in higher education research administration as well as research performance analysis is crucial. You will also need a good understanding of systems information support (the team provides system administration and user support to relevant systems including Pure and Worktribe). A proven leader able to deliver significant change, you will be able to manage teams effectively and organise and deliver complex projects. This is an exciting opportunity to make your mark at a leading Russell Group university.

 In return, you can look forward to an excellent benefits package and a flexible home/office hybrid model supporting real work/life balance.

Our vision and mission at the University of Southampton is to have a community where staff and students feel welcome, supported and valued. This environment fosters a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity, encouraging applicants from diverse backgrounds, with the belief that excellence will be achieved through recognising the value of every individual.

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please do contact Dr Lorna Colquhoun, Executive Director of Research and Innovation Services at l.m.colquhoun@soton.ac.uk  or Mylène Ployaert, Director Research Strategy and Funding at mgsp@soton.ac.uk. 

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Application Procedure 

Please apply by uploading your CV and a Cover Letter.  You should submit your completed online application form at https://jobs.soton.ac.uk. The application deadline is midnight on the closing date stated above.