Trusted Research Partner in Birmingham

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Salary: £47,389 to £56,535 (potential progression to £63,606)

Grade: 8

Full Time, Permanent

Closing date: 27th May 2026

The University is one of the UK’s leading research‑intensive institutions, committed to delivering outstanding research and fostering strong partnerships with industry. The Research Strategy & Services Division (RSSD) provides integrated support for research and innovation activities. Within RSSD, the Trusted Research Team offers expert support on the legal and regulatory dimensions of secure and responsible research, guiding the University through complex frameworks such as Export Control, the National Security & Investment Act, and the Nagoya Protocol.

The Trusted Research Partner (TRP) will play a leading role in shaping and supporting the University’s approach to research security and compliance. Reporting to the Assistant Director RSSD, the TRP will provide expert advice on key regulatory frameworks and support the development of policy and practice across RSSD, contributing to institutional training and risk mitigation.

Main Duties

• Work closely with the Assistant Director RSSD and College Hub leadership teams to shape and embed the University’s internal framework for Trusted Research, including developing practical tools and policies for compliance with legislation such as Export Control, the Nagoya Protocol, and funder due diligence requirements.
• Act as a key contact for Trusted Research queries—reviewing cases, supporting referrals to ECJU and RCAT, and drafting export licence applications where needed—and offer clear, pragmatic advice to senior academic and professional services leaders on risks and possible mitigations linked to international collaborations, data security, and strategic contracts.
• Take a lead role in reviewing and refining processes to ensure that policies remain responsive to emerging risks and regulatory changes; proactively liaise with stakeholders to maintain up‑to‑date guidance and demonstrable compliance across all core areas of the Trusted Research agenda.
• Help build the University’s understanding of research security through institution‑wide training and tailored guidance, raising awareness of regulatory requirements in a supportive manner for responsible international collaboration.
• Maintain strong working relationships across RSSD and key services such as Birmingham Global, Legal Services, and Development and Alumni Relations; remain well‑connected to legislative developments and good practice, and contribute to internal networks that foster joined‑up, collegiate approaches to research risk management.
• Support the development of light‑touch tracking and reporting mechanisms to capture the volume, nature, and outcomes of Trusted Research referrals; contribute high‑quality internal papers, briefings, and reports to inform decision‑making and strengthen the University’s control environment.
• Deputise for the Assistant Director RSSD when required, providing representation and expert input in internal and external meetings; contribute to strategic initiatives and change programmes related to Trusted Research and regulatory compliance.
• Actively support the University’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion by contributing to a respectful and enabling working culture across RSSD.
• Undertake any other tasks commensurate with the level of the role, as required from time to time.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience

• Educated to degree level or with equivalent professional experience gained in a research‑intensive or regulatory environment.
• Proven experience of supporting academic research in a governance, compliance or risk management role, ideally within STEM disciplines.
• Experience of providing senior specialist support to complex issues related to legal compliance and regulatory functions, including risk assessment and dissemination of expertise to ensure understanding and compliance at all university levels.
• Proven ability to write clearly for a variety of audiences and to produce and analyse source material, information and data.
• Authoritative knowledge of geopolitical issues impacting the UK and/or overseas research funding environment, including broader sector and commercial awareness.
• Substantial experience of engaging and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders in matters related to regulatory and contractual compliance.
• Excellent interpersonal and management skills, with proven experience of managing complex processes and engaging peers and staff who are not direct reports.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to analyse complex qualitative and quantitative information and present conclusions clearly and concisely.
• Judgement and proven problem‑solving skills that help identify and implement improvements and efficiencies across the service area and beyond.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Highly proficient IT skills, including the MS Office suite; confident and able to quickly learn new IT skills and software packages as required.
• High level of self‑motivation and personal accountability with the ability to plan and deliver goals to deadlines under pressure.
• Experience of championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and ability to monitor and evaluate the extent to which equality and diversity legislation, policies and procedures are applied.
• Ability to identify issues with the potential to impact protected groups and take appropriate action.

Benefits

• 40 days paid holiday per year.
• One paid day per year for volunteering.
• Occupational sick pay.
• Pension scheme.
• Three high‑quality subsidised day nurseries.
• Flexible working arrangements available.