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- Tasks: Coordinate and manage innovative projects linking universities with local businesses.
- Company: Durham University, part of a collaborative initiative with regional universities.
- Benefits: Generous pension, hybrid working, health support, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local businesses and drive innovation in the North East.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in relevant fields and experience in R&D or innovation projects.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Research and Innovation Services. Fixed Term - Full Time. Contract Duration: 1 year. Working Arrangements: To be arranged when appointed. Closing Date: 19-Apr-2026, 3:59:00 PM. Disclosure and Barring Service Requirement: Not Applicable.
The Arrow Programme is a collaboration between Durham University, Newcastle University, Northumbria University and the University of Sunderland. It links small and medium sized businesses with university knowledge and research to foster economic growth and innovation in the region. Durham University is recruiting two Innovation Associates (one Full Time and one 0.5 FTE) to work on the North East Combined Authority financed Arrow programme as part of the North East Universities Innovation and Commercialisation Programme (previously In-TUNE).
The base location for this role is Boldon House, near the Arnison Centre in Pity Me. Boldon House brings together professional services teams to support hybrid working.
Responsibilities
- Co-ordinate, project manage and deliver a portfolio of collaborations between Durham University, businesses and external partners within the Arrow team.
- Develop and support North East-based businesses to develop and commercialise new products and services, helping to create a pipeline of university-led projects and raise regional innovation potential.
- Act as the main point of contact for all parties in an allocated portfolio of short, task-based projects; co-develop projects around client needs.
- Deliver bespoke collaborative research and innovation support activities for regional businesses, including:
- designing project plans with guidance from academics and the company
- conducting literature reviews
- conducting primary/secondary research
- performing laboratory experiments
- facilitating consultations
- co-ordinating collaboration between relevant academics and company representatives
- carrying out data analysis and report writing
Qualifications: postgraduate degree (ideally PhD) in Data Science/AI/ML, Engineering, Automation and Manufacturing, Green Energy/Net Zero/Sustainability; experience in short-term R&D/innovation projects and working with industry are advantageous.
Lead responsibility for the Arrow Project at Durham University lies with the RIS team; the post holder will report to a Senior Manager in Commercialisation and Economic Development Group of RIS.
Other duties include providing guidance on research policy, supporting knowledge exchange, securing funding, and contributing to the RIS and Economic Development teams’ objectives.
Qualifications/Experience
- Educated to degree level (ideally PhD) in Data Science/AI ML / Engineering / Automation and Manufacturing / Green Energy, Net Zero, Sustainability or equivalent experience.
- Knowledge and expertise in delivering and developing research and innovation activity within a university environment.
- Experience advising a range of stakeholders in academic and business settings.
- Experience participating in networks to share best practice and influence the University’s reputation.
- Relevant experience delivering R&D or innovation projects with a commercial focus.
- Ability to collate and analyse information from literature reviews, large datasets and experts.
- Project management experience and familiarity with business processes (contracts, finances, project close-out).
- Strong organisational and time management skills to manage multiple tasks.
Skills/Abilities/Knowledge
- Excellent written and spoken communication; ability to build effective working relationships.
- Strong digital competence with Microsoft 365 and related tools.
- Commitment to continuing professional development and regulatory/compliance knowledge.
- Problem solving and ability to plan appropriate solutions.
- Ability to work effectively in a project team and calmly under pressure.
- Experience of working with small to medium enterprises.
- Experience developing and delivering short-term research and innovation projects.
- Experience with experimental work, data analysis and lab techniques.
How to Apply
To progress to the assessment stage, evidence each essential criterion from the Person Specification. Some criteria may be considered later in the assessment process. Check for any weighted criteria in the job description.
Submission: We prefer online applications. You will receive updates via the e-recruitment system. Please check spam/junk folders for updates.
What you need to submit:
- A CV
- A supporting statement or covering letter (maximum 2 sides of A4) outlining how you meet the criteria.
Contact details
For more information please contact Karl Gardiner, Economic Development Senior Manager: karl.c.gardiner@durham.ac.uk
Typical Role Requirements
- Ability to travel regionally.
- Flexibility to work with academics, researchers and commercial staff to deliver business and innovation support for SMEs; projects typically last from a few days up to about 1 month.
- Deliver project plans, update stakeholders, prepare documentation and minutes for meetings; manage audits and prepare case studies.
- Contribute to equality, diversity and inclusion and the University’s values.
- Review and improve systems and procedures in line with University frameworks and regulations.
- Provide specialist advice and guidance in your area of expertise and ensure policies and regulations are followed.
- Manage Arrow projects across the University to a high standard and develop service improvements.
Secondment and Immigration
Two posts are available: 1.0 FTE and 0.5 FTE, fixed term to 31 March 2027; may be offered on internal secondment basis. Immigration requirements and visa considerations apply.
Benefits and Equality
Durham University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates with disabilities, neurodiversity and long-term health conditions, and we will make reasonable adjustments to support the recruitment process and, if successful, in the role.
Benefits include generous pension, leave entitlements, hybrid working options, development opportunities, health and wellbeing support, on-site nursery, family-friendly policies, volunteering opportunities, exclusive employee discounts, salary sacrifice schemes and visa support where applicable.
Find more about total rewards and benefits on the University website.
Durham University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Innovation Associate - Arrow Programme in Sunderland employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Innovation Associate - Arrow Programme in Sunderland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Innovation Associate gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in R&D and innovation projects. Share specific examples of how you've helped businesses grow and innovate.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to companies you admire and express your interest in working with them. You never know when an opportunity might arise, especially in collaborative projects like the Arrow Programme.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from our site. It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and makes it easier for us to keep track of your application. Plus, you'll get updates straight to your inbox!
We think you need these skills to ace Innovation Associate - Arrow Programme in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Innovation Associate role. Highlight relevant experience in R&D, project management, and collaboration with businesses. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how you meet the criteria outlined in the job description. Be specific about your skills and experiences that relate to the Arrow Programme and show us your passion for innovation.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written communication is key for this role, make sure your application is clear and concise. Avoid jargon and keep it professional yet engaging. We want to see your ability to convey ideas effectively!
Apply Online: We prefer online applications, so head over to our website to submit your application. It’s straightforward, and you'll receive updates through our e-recruitment system. Don’t forget to check your spam folder for any messages from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Arrow Programme and its objectives. Familiarise yourself with how Durham University collaborates with businesses and the specific role of an Innovation Associate. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the position.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your past experiences in R&D or innovation projects, especially those with a commercial focus. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed projects, collaborated with stakeholders, and delivered results that align with the job requirements.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Come prepared with questions that demonstrate your curiosity about the role and the team. Inquire about the types of projects you might work on, the collaboration process with businesses, and how success is measured within the Arrow Programme. This shows you’re thinking ahead and are genuinely interested.
✨Demonstrate Soft Skills
Highlight your communication and organisational skills during the interview. Discuss how you’ve built effective working relationships in the past and how you manage multiple tasks under pressure. These soft skills are crucial for the role and can set you apart from other candidates.