Head of Research Policy Development and Partner Engagement

Shape research policy and influence the global research agenda. In alignment with our institutional vision, the newly established Research Strategy Team at Imperial College London aims to enhance our research ecosystem by fostering a proactive and engaged approach to research strategy development.

These positions are central to our ambition of fostering a proactive, strategic approach to research development, enhancing our engagement with funders, and driving innovation through coordinated, high-impact initiatives. By joining this newly established team, you will play a central role in shaping institutional research policy, strengthening strategic relationships, and positioning Imperial as a global thought leader in research excellence.

Working within the Research Strategy Team in the Office of the Vice‑Provost (Research and Enterprise), this role sits at the intersection of research policy, strategy, governance and external engagement, providing authoritative advice to senior leaders and building influential networks across government, funders and the higher education sector.

What you would be doing:

• Leading the development and review of Imperial’s research principles, aims and policies, ensuring alignment with institutional strategy and responsiveness to an evolving national and international policy landscape.
• Working closely with academic leaders, professional services colleagues and external partners to interpret and influence research policy, anticipate regulatory change and strengthen Imperial’s reputation and standing.
• Analysing government, funder and regulatory developments and advising senior leadership on academic and strategic implications.
• Building and sustaining influential networks with policymakers, funders, sector bodies and partner institutions.
• Positioning Imperial as a thought leader in research policy through engagement, advocacy and strategic communications.
• Contributing to institutional research strategy and long‑term strategic planning.
• Horizon scanning for emerging issues, opportunities and risks in the research policy environment.
• Representing the Vice‑Provost (Research and Enterprise) at relevant policy‑facing meetings when required.
• Line‑managing and developing a small specialist team, fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high‑performing culture.

You will act as a trusted advisor, sounding board and bridge between policy, strategy and delivery, ensuring Imperial remains agile, influential and strategically aligned.

What we are looking for:

• Significant experience in senior roles requiring diplomacy, judgement and influencing at institutional or sector level.
• A strong track record in developing and implementing research‑related policy within a higher education, government or research‑focused environment.
• Deep understanding of the UK and international research policy and governance landscape.
• Proven ability to analyse complex regulatory and funding changes and translate them into clear, strategic advice.
• Outstanding writing, analytical and conceptual skills, with the ability to frame persuasive institutional narratives.
• Credibility and confidence engaging with senior academics, policymakers, funders and external partners.
• Experience leading and developing staff in complex matrix environments.
• Strong political awareness, strategic insight and a collaborative leadership style.
• A postgraduate qualification or equivalent professional experience in a relevant research area is essential.

This is a full time, open ended position based at South Kensington and White City campus (hybrid).

Further details - Emily Roche: e.roche@imperial.ac.uk