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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage research portfolios and collaborate with stakeholders to drive impactful research.
- Company: Join UK Research and Innovation, a leader in supporting transformative research for society.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 30 days annual leave, and access to a Civil Service Pension Scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that shapes the future of research and innovation in the UK.
- Qualifications: Ideal for high calibre graduates with a research background or equivalent experience.
- Other info: Hybrid working model available; apply by 30 June 2025.
The predicted salary is between 36650 - 40915 £ per year.
SALARY: £36,650 PER ANNUM
HOURS: FULL TIME OR PART TIME (MIN 0.6 FTE)
CONTRACT TYPE: OPEN ENDED (PERMANENT)
LOCATION: POLARIS HOUSE, SWINDON (HYBRID)
CLOSING DATE: 30 JUNE 2025
ABOUT US
Are you passionate about research? Are you keen to work with researchers, business and Government to help support excellent research that delivers real impact for the economy and society? Research Portfolio Managers assist with the development and delivery of ideas for future activities and build relationships with stakeholders within universities and industry to ensure we fund research of the highest quality to implement new, innovative research programmes. Portfolio managers also play a key role in managing our funding competitions.
PURPOSE
As an EPSRC Portfolio Manager, you will work with the Engineering and Physical Sciences research community to achieve EPSRC's aim to put the UK at the forefront of international research. You will be given responsibility for one of EPSRC's portfolios and will help develop ideas for future activities in a strongly team-based organisation as well as working with other Government Departments and Councils within UKRI. This role will broaden your skills by giving you the opportunity to manage your own projects and activities. Interaction with stakeholders especially in universities is an important part of the role.
OUTPUTS & ACTIVITIES
- Gathering, understanding and integrating internal and external information about the research and innovation landscape and the EPSRC portfolio.
- Operation of peer review and other formal decision-making processes.
- Working with external stakeholders to manage strategic relationships with key influencers in universities and business through representing EPSRC in external networks and meetings.
- Working across teams to ensure cross portfolio understanding and joint initiatives as appropriate.
- Monitoring, evaluating and reporting on activities and investments to feed into planning.
- Supporting senior colleagues with development of projects and implementation of plans, coordinating and operating processes supporting delivery across EPSRC.
We will consider high calibre graduates with a research background (or those with equivalent education, training, or professional development) who can demonstrate the potential to succeed.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
- Problem solving and analytical skills, including a focus on successful outcomes
- Effective communication skills (verbal, presentational and written)
- Ability to work with others as part of a team, including though taking a leadership role and influencing others through behaviour and empathy
- Strategic awareness
- Planning and organisational skills, including an ability to make decisions, prioritise and manage complex activities
- Creativity, adaptability and openness to change
INCENTIVES
DEVELOPING TALENT: We are committed to developing employees in their roles throughout their career. Learning and development plans enable employees to continue their professional development through training and development opportunities such as e-learning, classroom training and on-the-job experiences. We encourage our employees to share their learning across teams and organisations.
BENEFITS: UKRI can offer the successful candidate:
- Flexible Working
- 30 days annual leave + Public Holidays
- Access to Civil Service Pension Scheme
- Various everyday discounts through our dedicated provider
Visit our dedicated benefits webpage for more info: Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
RESEARCH PORTFOLIO MANAGER in Swindon employer: Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
Contact Detail:
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land RESEARCH PORTFOLIO MANAGER in Swindon
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the research community, especially those involved with EPSRC or similar organisations. Attend relevant conferences and workshops to meet potential colleagues and stakeholders, as personal connections can significantly enhance your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the current research landscape and key trends in engineering and physical sciences. Being well-informed will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your problem-solving and analytical skills in detail. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated complex situations or made strategic decisions, as these are crucial for the Portfolio Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to work collaboratively by highlighting any team projects you've been involved in. Emphasise your leadership qualities and how you've influenced others positively, as teamwork is a key aspect of this position.
We think you need these skills to ace RESEARCH PORTFOLIO MANAGER in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the role of a Research Portfolio Manager. Emphasise your problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and any experience in managing projects or working with stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for research and your understanding of the EPSRC's mission. Mention specific examples of how your background and skills make you a suitable candidate for this position.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on any previous roles or projects where you demonstrated strategic awareness, planning, and organisational skills. Use concrete examples to illustrate your ability to manage complex activities and work collaboratively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
✨Understand the Research Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current research and innovation landscape, particularly in the Engineering and Physical Sciences sectors. Be prepared to discuss recent developments and how they relate to the EPSRC's goals.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Research Portfolio Manager, effective communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing. Consider preparing examples of how you've successfully communicated complex ideas in the past.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Leadership
Be ready to share experiences where you've worked collaboratively within a team or taken on a leadership role. Highlight your ability to influence others positively and how you’ve navigated team dynamics to achieve successful outcomes.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Anticipate questions that assess your problem-solving and analytical skills. Think of specific instances where you've tackled challenges, detailing your thought process and the results achieved. This will showcase your strategic awareness and adaptability.
