At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage research portfolios and build relationships with stakeholders in universities and industry.
- Company: Join EPSRC, a leader in supporting impactful research for the economy and society.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 30 days annual leave, and access to a Civil Service Pension Scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid working model available; open-ended contract for long-term career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in research while developing your skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Ideal for graduates with a research background or equivalent experience; strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the RESEARCH PORTFOLIO MANAGER role at EPSRC.
This range is provided by EPSRC. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
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 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: EPSRC
At EPSRC, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Located in the vibrant Polaris House in Swindon, our team-oriented environment encourages professional growth through tailored development plans and flexible working arrangements. With a commitment to supporting impactful research and a generous benefits package, including 30 days of annual leave and access to the Civil Service Pension Scheme, we empower our employees to thrive both personally and professionally.
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 connected to EPSRC. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet potential colleagues and stakeholders, as building these relationships can give you an edge in understanding the role better.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the engineering and physical sciences sectors. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field and your ability to contribute to EPSRC's goals.
✨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, as this aligns closely with the assessment criteria for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by engaging in discussions about research initiatives on platforms like LinkedIn. Sharing insights or commenting on relevant posts can highlight your expertise and make you more visible to recruiters at EPSRC.
We think you need these skills to ace RESEARCH PORTFOLIO MANAGER in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Research Portfolio Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description.
Craft a Strong CV:Your CV should clearly showcase your relevant experience, particularly in research management or related fields. Use bullet points to outline your achievements and quantify your impact where possible.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for research and your understanding of the EPSRC's mission. Highlight specific examples of how you've successfully managed projects or collaborated with stakeholders in the past.
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.
How to prepare for a job interview at EPSRC
✨Understand the Research Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current research and innovation landscape relevant to the EPSRC. Be prepared to discuss recent developments and how they might impact the role of a Research Portfolio Manager.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. 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 have worked collaboratively within a team or taken on a leadership role. Highlight your ability to influence others positively and work towards common goals.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Anticipate questions that assess your problem-solving and analytical skills. Think of specific instances where you've tackled challenges effectively, and be prepared to discuss your thought process and outcomes.
