At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative R&D programmes to tackle societal challenges and drive transformative breakthroughs.
- Company: Join ARIA, a pioneering organisation at the forefront of science and technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, hybrid working, and a supportive learning environment.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with exceptional career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on future generations through cutting-edge research and collaboration.
- Qualifications: Deep expertise in a scientific or technical field and experience in R&D.
The predicted salary is between 75600 - 92400 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 28 September 2026
Department: Programmes
Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract
Location: London
Description
Programme Director Cohort 3
Location: Kings Cross, London (hybrid)
Employment Type: This is a full-time role, although we are open to discussing an 80% commitment with exceptional candidates where this would still allow them to fulfil the role effectively.
Contract Type: 3 years fixed-term (with the possibility for extension)
Closing Date: Early bird application deadline 07.09.26; final application deadline 28.09.26
About ARIA
From climate change to AI, society faces enormous challenges and opportunities that can be uniquely addressed by science and technology. ARIA was created to activate the UK’s world-class R&D in new ways, so we can meet these head on. Our success is shaped by one question: how will ARIA transform the lives of the UK’s future generations?
About the Role
As an ARIA Programme Director (PD), you will:
- Design and launch ambitious R&D programmes, each with a budget of around £50 million, within ARIA’s existing opportunity spaces;
- Run extensive discovery across academia, industry, start-ups, government, non-profits and the wider R&D ecosystem;
- Translate what you learn into focused programmes with a clear theory of change;
- Select and fund a portfolio of R&D projects to unlock breakthroughs;
- Actively manage and direct your programmes and project portfolios;
- Create and grow new communities around your programmes’ visions and goals.
How we’ll support you
- A world-class operating team built to help ambitious programmes move quickly;
- Dedicated technical and programme support;
- Proven funding mechanisms and operational infrastructure;
- Access to ARIA’s networks across science, technology, government, industry and venture;
- An exceptional community of peers and leaders;
- Support from ARIA’s Activation Partners.
Who you are
Standout applicants will demonstrate a majority of these qualities:
- You see potential within our existing opportunity spaces;
- You believe the UK is the right place to maximise your impact;
- You’re intrinsically motivated to have an outsized impact on the world;
- You’re deeply technical in at least one field;
- You can take a scientific or technical vision from idea to execution;
- You have the imagination and judgement to see where AI capabilities could shift major bottlenecks;
- You have worked in a fast-paced environment;
- You can unite others towards ambitious goals;
- You communicate clearly and persuasively;
- You’re resilient and self-motivated;
- You're highly curious;
- You're able to spend your time in the UK.
Eligibility
You will:
- Have significant depth of knowledge and expertise within at least one scientific research, engineering or technology field;
- Bring experience beyond traditional academic research;
- Make ARIA your primary professional focus;
- Be able to travel regularly across the UK – and occasionally abroad;
- Spend a minimum of three days per week at ARIA HQ during the first and third weeks of every month.
If you’re appointed, you must:
- Have, or be able to obtain, the right to work in the UK;
- Successfully complete the required national security vetting.
Benefits
- 27 days annual leave provision;
- Hybrid working arrangements;
- Supportive environment for learning and development opportunities;
- Enhanced family leave arrangements;
- A free and confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme;
- Life Assurance;
- 2 days of paid volunteer days;
- 5% defined contribution pension scheme with Smart Pension;
- Cycle to Work scheme;
- An excellent office location in Kings X, London.
Note: We’ve carefully considered Programme Director compensation. Aiming to attract diverse career stages, disciplines, and sectors, we offer a competitive package relative to benchmarks.
ARIA Programme Director employer: Aria
ARIA is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, ideal for those passionate about advancing research and development. With a commitment to employee growth, we offer robust professional development opportunities and the flexibility of hybrid working in London, ensuring a balanced work-life dynamic. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the unique advantages of being part of a forward-thinking agency dedicated to supporting groundbreaking projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land ARIA Programme Director
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Aria, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Aria. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace ARIA Programme Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Aria. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Aria. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aria
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Aria. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Aria to drive research projects forward.
