At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead analysis of England's higher education research and innovation system.
- Company: Join Research England, part of UKRI, a leader in research and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape national policy and make a real impact on the future of education.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and experience in higher education policy.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
- Head of University Sector Insight Job in UK 2026
- Head of University Sector Insight Job in UK 2026
Research England is seeking a Head of University Sector Insight to join its Insight and Engagement Team on a six-month fixed-term contract.
The successful candidate will lead the analysis of the health of England’s higher education research and innovation system, transforming complex quantitative and qualitative evidence into strategic insights that inform policy development and government decision-making.
The role involves working closely with senior leadership, government departments, universities, and sector partners to support evidence-based policy that strengthens research, innovation, and knowledge exchange across England.
About the Hiring Firm
Research England is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), one of Europe’s largest research organizations.
It supports England’s higher education providers by funding research and knowledge exchange while promoting innovation, economic growth, and societal impact.
Research England works closely with universities, government, and sector partners to strengthen the UK’s global leadership in research, innovation, and higher education through evidence-based policy and strategic investment.
- Job Duties
- Develop and maintain expert knowledge of higher education, research, innovation, and fiscal policy affecting English universities.
- Lead the development of innovative approaches for measuring and monitoring the health of the research and innovation system.
- Interpret complex quantitative and qualitative evidence and transform findings into actionable insights for diverse audiences.
- Lead policy development relating to assessing and monitoring the health of the university sector.
- Support senior leadership in developing evidence-based policy recommendations.
- Present research findings and policy analysis to external stakeholders and sector bodies.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with universities, government agencies, and policy organizations.
- Provide evidence-based briefings and advice to government departments and senior UKRI leadership.
- Act as the primary contact for university sector queries relating to sector health and policy.
- Line manage Policy Advisors and Senior Policy Advisors.
- Assess and present complex datasets to support policy development and strategic decision-making.
- Contribute to new data initiatives, research evaluation, funding policy development, and internal project management.
- Prepare reports, committee papers, and strategic documentation for Research England leadership.
- Job Requirements
- Excellent analytical skills with experience working across quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method datasets.
- Strong ability to interpret complex evidence and communicate insights to a wide range of audiences.
- Comprehensive understanding of the higher education research, innovation, and knowledge exchange landscape in England.
- Knowledge of university governance, finance, operations, and the wider political and policy environment.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience working with universities, government bodies, and policy stakeholders.
- Ability to identify policy solutions and provide authoritative advice on research and innovation issues.
- Strong project management and people management experience.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities while working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
- Experience in data architecture principles and understanding of economic theory are desirable.
This is an excellent opportunity for experienced higher education policy and research professionals to contribute to the future of England’s research and innovation landscape.
The role offers a competitive annual salary, Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, an excellent pension scheme, and the opportunity to influence national policy while working within one of Europe’s leading research organizations.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of University Sector Insight Job in UK 2026
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of University Sector Insight Job in UK 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at NewsNowGh
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from NewsNowGh.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show NewsNowGh that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
