At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in delivering top-notch research support and drive innovative solutions.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking university committed to enhancing research performance.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional growth, collaborative culture, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant community focused on collaboration and excellence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of research while working with passionate professionals in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in research support and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Department Overview
The University has a bold vision to build upon the success of REF2021 by continuing to enhance research performance across awards, outputs, income, and impact. At the core of this endeavour lies the Research Strategy & Services Division (RSSD), a newly established department focused on catalysing the University’s Birmingham 2030 research ambitions.
Role Summary
The Head of Research Operations (College of Medicine & Health) is a pivotal role within the RSSD, responsible for leading a CMH research support function, working in close collaboration with the wider Division and academic and Professional Services colleagues in the College. Reporting to the Assistant Director RSSD, the Head of Research Operations will lead a team of expert practitioners that deliver a portfolio of research support activities, including research development & facilitation, proposal drafting, budget preparation, compliance, and contracts negotiation.
The successful candidate will provide visible and proactive leadership, ensuring regular face‑to‑face engagement to build trust, foster collaboration, and offer hands‑on support to team members. They will create an environment where individuals feel valued and empowered, balancing strategic oversight with day‑to‑day guidance. Being present and accessible, the leader will strengthen team cohesion and drive performance. In addition, they will develop strong internal and external networks across the University and beyond, positioning the team as a trusted partner in delivering high‑quality research support.
Reporting to the Assistant Director RSSD, the Head of Research Operations leads one of our four College Hub Research Support teams, encompassing all aspects of pre‑award research support, due diligence, grants set up, and contracts. The Head of Research Operations is a core member of a wider, integrated research leadership team that works collectively across the full lifecycle of research activity.
Working in close partnership with the Head of Research Strategy & Development, the Head of Post Award, the Trusted Research team, and the Research Ethics, Governance and Integrity team, the role contributes to a seamless, end‑to‑end approach to research support that brings together strategic development, operational delivery, and proportionate oversight of risk and compliance.
This collaborative environment provides significant scope to shape creative and effective approaches across the research pathway — from proposal development through to the management of complex awards and contracts — while contributing to the design of efficient, sustainable processes and systems. As part of a supportive and high‑performing leadership community, the role also offers strong opportunities for professional growth and career development, alongside the chance to make a tangible institutional impact.
The RSSD is committed to a collaborative and open culture, and the Head of Research Operations will benefit from this and will embed this same culture within their College Hub Research Support team to ensure that colleagues are supported and work collectively. They will form part of the RSSD College Hubs Senior Leadership Team and the Extended Leadership Group for the wider Research Strategy & Services Division.
Being approachable and open to staff within the RSSD and the wider University is a key element of the role, reflecting the collaborative approach that is essential to effective research support. Key internal stakeholders include academics, College Heads of Department, School Heads of Research and College Deputy Director of Operations for Research Support. The Head of Research Operations will also have the opportunity to develop relationships with strategic partners, funders and HEIs from across the sector.
Main Duties
- Working with your Research Support Managers, lead a Research Support Team of c25 research support professionals to effectively manage and agree prioritisation of workload across all aspects of pre‑award research support including: research development; research facilitation and support for proposal drafting; budget preparation and costing; compliance with funder terms and conditions; submissions to funder; regulatory compliance and trusted research, including due diligence on partners and funders and referrals for export control; grant set up; negotiation and agreement of research contracts and research‑related agreements.
- Ensure timely monitoring and reporting to senior colleagues in RSSD and the College of key performance indicators including grant applications, awards, contribution, success rates and contracts clearance levels.
- Develop and lead innovations in research support that seek to enhance these measures and ensure that the impact of service innovations is clearly understood, that systemic issues are recognised and addressed, teams are supported to effectively deliver, and services are continually improved.
- As a contracts signatory for the University, ensure that there is a clear negotiating framework for all research and research related contracts, that is regularly reviewed and updated, which supports the negotiation of all agreements relating to research, ensuring that this includes appropriate provision for the protection of Intellectual Property.
Head of Research Operations in Birmingham employer: Association Of Research Managers And Administrators (ARMA) Ltd.
The University offers an exceptional work environment for the Head of Research Operations, fostering a collaborative and open culture that empowers employees to thrive. With a strong commitment to professional growth, this role provides ample opportunities to shape innovative research support strategies while making a significant impact on the institution's research ambitions. Located in Birmingham, the University not only values its staff but also encourages meaningful engagement with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders, ensuring a rewarding and fulfilling career path.
Contact Details:
Association Of Research Managers And Administrators (ARMA) Ltd. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Research Operations in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the research field. Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meet-ups. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, be ready to discuss your experience and how it aligns with their needs. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate your expertise in research operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to organisations you admire and express your interest in working with them. Sometimes, creating your own opportunity is the best way to land a role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you prepare for interviews and showcase your skills. Plus, applying directly can give you an edge over other candidates. Let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Research Operations in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Research Operations role. Highlight your relevant experience in research support and leadership, and don’t forget to mention how you align with our vision for enhancing research performance.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see how you lead and inspire teams! Share examples of how you've fostered collaboration and built trust in previous roles. This is key for us as we look for someone who can create a supportive environment for our research support team.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is crucial. Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end.
How to prepare for a job interview at Association Of Research Managers And Administrators (ARMA) Ltd.
✨Know Your Research Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into the current research initiatives and strategies of the University. Familiarise yourself with their Birmingham 2030 ambitions and how your role as Head of Research Operations can contribute to these goals. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the institution's vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how you foster collaboration within teams. Think of specific examples where you've built trust and empowered team members in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to create a supportive environment will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Strategic Thinking
Be ready to talk about how you would develop and implement innovative research support strategies. Consider discussing past experiences where you've successfully managed complex awards or contracts, and how you navigated challenges while ensuring compliance and efficiency.
✨Engage with Key Stakeholders
Research the key internal stakeholders you'll be working with, such as College Heads of Department and School Heads of Research. Prepare thoughtful questions about their expectations and how you can best support their research goals. This shows that you're proactive and ready to build strong relationships from day one.
