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- Tasks: Manage research funding and engage with academic and business communities.
- Company: Join the Natural Environment Research Council, a leader in environmental research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, hybrid working, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental research while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in research or innovation landscape and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Open to full-time or part-time applicants; flexible working options available.
The predicted salary is between 36650 - 40915 £ per year.
Salary: £36,650 per annum
Band: UKRI Band D
Team: Research and Skill Directorate (Discovery Team)
Positions: 3
Hours: Full time or Part time (0.8)
Contract Type: Open Ended.
Location: Polaris House, Swindon, Wiltshire. (Hybrid working available)
Closing Date: Tuesday 9th September 2025
As a Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Programme Manager, you will engage with the academic community, business, and policy makers to help maintain the UKs leadership in environmental research and innovation, both nationally and internationally. You will contribute to the development and delivery of NERC and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) investments aligned with NERCs strategic delivery plan, demonstrating a strong aptitude for programme delivery across areas such as research funding competition management and post-award monitoring.
Key Activities
- Supporting the development and management of a portfolio of investment in research, innovation and postgraduate training within NERCs priorities.
- Take responsibility for the peer review and panel assessment of proposals for funding, by: selecting appropriate reviewers and panels members, acting as secretariat for the associated assessment panel meetings; ensure appropriate and timely communications at all times with those involved; promoting good decision making through equality, diversity and fairness in funding opportunities.
- Carry out active management of funded research, through specific programme activities, e.g. monitoring programme budgets; organising programme meetings and communications; preparing papers, reports and briefings; maintaining webpages.
- Engagement with communities and stakeholders in the UK and internationally. Act as an interface with researchers (universities, other environmental agencies, and research centres) and research users (business, government and policy makers) for agreed areas of NERC activity.
- Provide high quality expertise and advice in areas of responsibility informed by the latest developments in the area, evidence and engagement with relevant external stakeholders.
- Promoting and contributing to cross-council projects and projects funded jointly with external funders.
- Activity manage Assistant Programme Managers, as necessary, and administrative support staff in order to achieve NERCs delivery goals.
- Other tasks such as analysing investments (funding outcomes, outputs and impacts), data gathering and analysis.
Person Specification
- Working knowledge or experience of the research and/or innovation landscape in the UK and the science areas and/or communities supported by NERC.
- Ability to absorb, evaluate and communicate complex information in language appropriate to the audience.
- Ability to prioritise, multi-task, and work to deadlines.
- Ability to work flexibly on own initiative, as well as contribute well to team working.
- Demonstrable track record in influencing effectively (both verbal and written media) across teams, wider organisation and external stakeholder communities.
- Effective use of Microsoft Office applications, e-mail and internet.
Benefits
- 30 days annual leave plus 10.5 public and privilege days (FTE)
- Outstanding defined benefit pension scheme
- Flexible working options and hybrid working
- Employee discounts and wellbeing initiatives
- Continuous learning and development opportunities
- A supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking work environment
UKRI is an Equal Opportunity & Disability Confident Employer.
How To Apply
For full details, please visit our careers site. Please submit an application including your CV and a Cover Letter that showcases how your skills and experience align to the requirements of the role.
A well thought through application providing evidence and examples of how you meet the advertised essential and desirable criteria for the post will be considered far more favourably than a generic covering letter and CV.
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Programme Manager employer: NERC UK LTD
Contact Detail:
NERC UK LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in environmental research and innovation. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage more effectively with stakeholders during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the research and innovation landscape. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the challenges and opportunities within NERC's priorities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing research funding competitions and post-award monitoring. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated similar responsibilities in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively by preparing examples of successful teamwork. Highlight instances where you've influenced decisions or outcomes, as this is crucial for the Programme Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Programme Manager position. Understand the key activities and responsibilities, as well as the skills and experience required. This will help you tailor your application effectively.
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the role. Use examples from your past work to demonstrate your ability to manage research funding and engage with stakeholders.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any relevant experience you have in programme management, research funding, or stakeholder engagement. Make sure to include specific achievements that showcase your ability to influence and communicate effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread both your CV and cover letter. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are clear and professional. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at NERC UK LTD
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Programme Manager role and its key activities. Familiarise yourself with NERC's strategic delivery plan and how it aligns with UKRI investments. This will help you articulate how your experience fits into their objectives.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Programme Manager, effective communication is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex information to diverse audiences. Highlight your ability to engage with stakeholders, researchers, and policy makers, as this will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Experience
Be ready to discuss your experience in managing research projects or funding competitions. Provide specific examples of how you've handled budgets, organised meetings, and ensured timely communications. This will showcase your ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Having thoughtful questions prepared shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about the current challenges NERC faces in environmental research or how they measure the success of their programmes. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also gives you valuable insights into the position.
