At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Research Security Team and develop policies for secure, responsible research.
- Company: A prestigious university committed to innovative and compliant research practices.
- Benefits: Strategic influence, professional development, and opportunities to shape governance.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to represent the university externally and drive change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on research security while collaborating with top leaders and partners.
- Qualifications: Significant leadership experience in research compliance and risk management.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
As Head of Research Security, you will lead the university's approach to secure, responsible and internationally engaged research. You will steer the Research Security Team and oversee the Trusted Research framework to manage security, regulatory and geopolitical risks. Working across the research lifecycle, you will develop policies, guidance and assurance mechanisms that enable compliant, open collaboration. You will advise senior leaders and collaborate with faculties, directorates and partners to protect people, assets and reputation while sustaining an open research environment. This role offers strategic influence and opportunities to shape governance and risk management at scale.
Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the Research Security Team to deliver guidance, monitoring, assurance and reporting.
- Oversee the implementation and continuous improvement of the Trusted Research Framework.
- Act as Secretariat to the Trusted Research Committee and Chair of the Trusted Research Working Group.
- Develop and implement policies, processes, and risk management across the research lifecycle.
- Provide expert advice on research security, compliance and risk management to senior stakeholders.
- Ensure compliance with international regulations, export controls, sanctions, and data protection.
- Coordinate responses to regulatory, funder and geopolitical risks affecting research activities.
- Represent the university externally and build relationships with regulators, funders and partners.
- Lead implementation of new processes and systems and drive service improvement.
- Escalate emerging risks and support informed decision-making to safeguard integrity and strategic interests.
Key requirements
- Significant leadership experience in research compliance, governance, risk management or related functions within higher education or research-intensive settings.
- Ability to embed institutional approaches that balance opportunity with regulatory and security considerations.
- Proven capability to advise senior leaders, translating complex issues into practical, risk-based recommendations.
- Knowledge of the UK Trusted Research agenda and related geopolitical, regulatory and operational risks.
- Experience identifying and managing complex organisational risks with reporting and assurance to governance bodies.
- Ability to apply regulatory requirements pragmatically while enabling organisational objectives.
- Experience leading high-performing teams and delivering change, new processes and systems.
- Experience representing an organisation to regulators, funders, government and strategic partners.
Head of Research Security in London employer: King's College London
At King’s College London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training opportunities and a supportive environment that encourages professional development. Located in the heart of London, our institution offers unique advantages such as access to world-class resources and a vibrant community dedicated to advancing research and education.
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We think this is how you could land Head of Research Security in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Research Security in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
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How to prepare for a job interview at King's College London
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Before your interview with King's College London, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
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The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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