Assoc Dean Research & Knowledge Exchange-Faculty of Med & Health Science in Walsall

The University of Wolverhampton is seeking to appoint an outstanding senior academic to join the newly established Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) as the Associate Dean for Research and Knowledge Exchange. This is a strategic leadership role that will support the Faculty to deliver against the University 2035 strategy of producing world leading research, that informs teaching, and to realise our vision of creating opportunity, transforming lives, and delivering a more inclusive, productive and sustainable society. The Faculty specifically aspires to address significant health and societal challenges with an aim to maximise activity and societal participation.

This role ensures that the Faculty contributes to the University's reputation for research excellence, knowledge transfer, and societal impact. It bridges academic scholarship with real-world application, helping universities meet national priorities for the NHS long term plan, innovation and regional economic development.

As Associate Dean for Research and Knowledge Exchange, you will:

• Lead the development and implementation of the Faculty's Research and Knowledge Exchange Strategy.
• Champion research excellence and innovation, building on our performance in REF and KEF.
• Oversee the delivery of PG Research training programmes (PhD and Prof Doc) and the PGR student experience.
• Foster an inclusive and collaborative research culture that reflects our commitment to equality, diversity, and engagement.
• Collaborate closely with senior leaders, Heads of School, and Research Centres to build research capability, capacity and quality, increase external funding and expand enterprise activity.
• Represent the Faculty on key University committees and external networks, influencing policy and practice regionally and internationally.

We are particularly looking for a visionary research leader with a proven track record of interdisciplinary research in a field aligned with the FHMS educational portfolio. You will demonstrate experience in developing and implementing research strategy and have excellent communication and influencing skills to build strong strategic partnership internally and externally.

The University of Wolverhampton is a civic University with a proud history of widening access and delivering excellence in teaching, research, and business engagement. We have strong research and educational links with our local NHS partners, civic bodies, and public health teams in Wolverhampton and Walsall. Our research makes a transformative impact through collaboration, public engagement, and multi-disciplinary projects addressing global health challenges. This is your opportunity to make a lasting impact on research and knowledge exchange at a university that values innovation, inclusivity, and excellence.

We will consider secondment opportunities if appropriate. For an individual with an active research portfolio we will consider protected research time to ensure that their current research portfolio is sustained. To learn more about this post please email Prof Anand Pandyan (a.pandyan@wlv.ac.uk) to arrange a conversation.

The University of Wolverhampton recognises and protects the rights to freedom of speech and academic freedom, within the law. We are committed to ensuring that lawful expression of ideas, beliefs and opinions — including those that may be controversial or unpopular — does not result in disadvantage in recruitment, employment or progression. An offer of employment at the University of Wolverhampton will never be denied based on an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

The University of Wolverhampton is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to preventing unlawful discrimination and harassment, promoting equality of opportunity, and fostering an inclusive environment where colleagues are treated with dignity and respect. We strive to create a workplace in which colleagues have the confidence and freedom to be themselves, while working professionally and in accordance with equality legislation and University policies.

We recognise that applicants may use AI tools to support the preparation of their applications. However, submissions must reflect your own experience, achievements and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role. Please ensure your application accurately represents your own voice and capabilities.

We recognise the value of flexible working arrangements and are open to discussion wherever possible.

Your Benefits:

• Competitive salaries
• Standard Life Pension scheme – with employer contribution of up to 12% to the University's defined contribution scheme.
• Long Service Recognition – £200 gift voucher, certificate, and afternoon tea with Vice Chancellor for 25 & 40 years of service.
• Free Will Writing Service – Complimentary will drafting for employees and their partners.
• IT & Mobile Discounts – EE Perk (20% off for family & friends) & software discounts.
• Wellbeing and Mental Health Support – 24/7 access to EAP service, free counselling sessions, wellbeing support resources and Occupational Health Service.
• Gym memberships discounts – at our Walsall Campus and discounts at WV Active sites in Wolverhampton.
• Eyecare Support – Free eVoucher for eye tests and glasses contribution.
• Flu Vouchers – Free flu vaccinations for staff.
• Paycare Health Benefit Plan – Covers optical, dental, physiotherapy, and personal accident insurance.
• Chaplaincy & Prayer Rooms – Access to multi-faith chaplaincy services.
• Generous Annual Leave
• Flexible & Agile Working – Flexible and Hybrid working arrangements.
• Free On-site Parking – available across campuses.
• Cycle Benefits Scheme – Save up to 42% on a bike & accessories via salary sacrifice.
• Tusker Electric Vehicle Scheme – Electric cars via salary sacrifice.
• Employee Discounts – Savings on groceries, fashion, and entertainment.
• Travel Discounts – Up to 10% off holidays through Sodexo Circles.
• Access to support networks and events with our LGBTQ+, Global Majority, Disability, and Women's networks.
• Library Access – Staff have access to books and resources at our onsite libraries.
• Staff Scholarship Scheme – Funding for part-time higher education, up to PhD level.
• Leadership and Management Development – Access to training opportunities to support you with advancing in your career.