At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research to transform spinal cord injury treatments and drive innovation.
- Company: Spinal Research, a leading charity dedicated to curing paralysis through medical research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and a 4-day work week for better work-life balance.
- Other info: Join a passionate team and collaborate with top experts in the field.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by advancing life-changing therapies for paralysis.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in research programme development and strong scientific insight.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid, one day a week in the London office (Borough)
Salary: £75,000-80,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent, full-time role - Spinal Research operate a 4-day/32 hour week
Spinal Research is seeking an exceptional Director of Research & Innovation to help shape the future of spinal cord injury research. The organisation exists to fund the research that will cure paralysis. This appointment comes at a pivotal stage as scientific advances in spinal stimulation, neurotechnology and rehabilitation move closer to real-world application, bringing renewed hope to people living with paralysis.
For over 40 years, Spinal Research has been the UK's leading charity dedicated to funding medical research into spinal cord injury, moving the global conversation from "if" paralysis can be treated to "when". With the first function-restoring therapies designed and licensed for spinal cord injuries now becoming available in the UK, this position will directly drive the next chapter of the charity's mission.
Reporting to the CEO and joining the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Research & Innovation will play a central role in reviewing, influencing and driving forward our established scientific and innovation strategy. The successful candidate will lead a diverse portfolio spanning discovery science, translational research, clinical development and neurotechnology, ensuring investment decisions are guided by strong scientific insight and a clear view of patient impact.
Crucially, the role involves building meaningful collaborations across academia, healthcare, industry and philanthropy to accelerate the delivery of treatments. The Director will also lead the establishment of a new Scientific Advisory function, recruiting world-class experts to guide the portfolio, while collaborating with fundraising and communications teams to bring scientific insights to life for major donors.
The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of developing complex research programmes and navigating the wider life sciences ecosystem. This position demands the ability to critically appraise scientific data, translate it into compelling narratives for non-specialist audiences, and collaboratively drive promising ideas into tangible patient outcomes.
For a leader with the strategic ambition and the drive to play a central role in turning scientific progress into life-changing reality, this role offers an extraordinary platform to help cure paralysis.
Director of Research & Innovation in London employer: AAW Group | B Corp
Spinal Research is an exceptional employer dedicated to transforming the landscape of spinal cord injury research, offering a unique opportunity to work in a hybrid environment with a 4-day work week. With a strong focus on employee growth and collaboration, the organisation fosters a culture of innovation and impact, allowing you to contribute directly to life-changing advancements in healthcare. Join a passionate team committed to making a difference, where your expertise will help shape the future of treatments for paralysis.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Research & Innovation in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Director of Research & Innovation in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show AAW Group | B Corp that you have the hands-on skills they need.
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Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that AAW Group | B Corp does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at AAW Group | B Corp
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
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Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
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