At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful training and capacity building initiatives in policy research.
- Company: Join the dynamic Policy Institute at King’s College London.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development opportunities and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career growth potential until July 2029.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by enhancing the impact of research on society.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in policy-related roles required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 42000 £ per year.
The Policy Institute at King’s College London works to solve society’s challenges with evidence and expertise. We combine the rigour of academia with the agility of a consultancy and the connectedness of a think tank. The Institute is an exciting, fast-moving environment for a motivated and quick-learning applicant looking to pursue a career in policy research. Our team spans a wide range of disciplines and backgrounds, and our work draws on the skills, expertise and resources of not only the institute, but the university and its wider network too. Our research is complemented by extensive communications, impact, education and engagement activities.
About the role
Alongside delivering our own programme of research, engagement and communications activities, the Policy Institute works collaboratively with colleagues across the university to support the wider impact of King’s research. This includes collaborating on research projects, but also providing training, advice and resources on engaging with the policy landscape and building impact into research.
Reporting to the Policy Institute’s Director of Research (Alex Pollitt), this role aims to expand and enhance the institute’s ability to support colleagues across the university in increasing the (policy) impact of King’s research. In addition to increasing the capacity of the team to deliver support, the post-holder will strategically expand, refine and coordinate our current approaches to better meet the needs identified across the university.
The postholder will be expected to have a good understanding of current and emerging approaches to policy translation and impact, as well as the ability to consult across the university to assess need and explore options for developing a coordinated programme of support. This is a full-time post (35 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 31 July 2029.
Research staff at King’s are entitled to at least 10 days per year (pro-rata) for professional development. This entitlement, from the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, applies to Postdocs, Research Assistants, Research and Teaching Technicians, Teaching Fellows and AEP equivalent up to and including grade 7. Visit the Centre for Research Staff Development for more information.
About you
- Strong understanding of the role of research evidence in creating societal impact (in particular through policy)
- PhD qualified in relevant subject area
- Practical experience in delivering research impact
- Experience of developing and delivering workshops and training courses for a range of audiences
- Experience working in a policy-related role
- Excellent written and oral communication, including the ability to adapt for, and work effectively with, people from a wide range of backgrounds
- Excellent organisational skills, time management, and ability to work independently using initiative as appropriate
- Demonstrable research skills in some of the approaches/methods relevant to the institute’s work
- Experience in developing impact-related programmes or strategies
- Experience in identifying and winning funding for impact-related work
Further information
At King’s, we believe that the diversity of our community and a culture that is welcoming, open, inclusive and collaborative, are great strengths of the university. The Equality Act of 2010 protects the rights of our students and staff and provides a framework to fulfil our duties to eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and in addition, to advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations between those who share a protected characteristic and those who do not. At times, this will include balancing rights and beliefs that can feel in tension.
We are committed to free speech and to academic freedom, believing that our foundational purpose as a university, is to create spaces where a wide range of ideas, including ideas that are controversial, can be discussed and debated, and where members of our community can express lawful views without fear of intimidation, harassment or discrimination. When engaging in the robust exchange of ideas, we ask that our community is mindful of our Dignity at King’s guidance.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is evolving rapidly, and we recognise its growing role in professional work. Applicants may use AI tools to support preparation of their application, for example to research the role or structure written responses. However, applications must reflect the applicant’s own work and experience. AI tools should not be used during interviews or assessment activities unless this has been agreed in advance as a reasonable adjustment. Further guidance on the use of AI in recruitment can be found here.
Research Fellow - Impact Training and Capacity Building Lead employer: King’s College London
King's College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises diversity and inclusion. Employees benefit from professional growth opportunities, competitive remuneration, and the chance to contribute to impactful research projects in the heart of Greater London, making it a rewarding environment for those passionate about advancing knowledge and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - Impact Training and Capacity Building Lead
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at King’s College London, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like King’s College London. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - Impact Training and Capacity Building Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at King’s College London. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at King’s College London. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at King’s College London
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at King’s College London. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at King’s College London to drive research projects forward.
