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- Tasks: Lead a team to manage knowledge exchange and commercialisation activities in a dynamic research environment.
- Company: Join The Pirbright Institute, a leader in viral disease research and animal health innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and subsidised gym membership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in science while developing your skills in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Degree in biological sciences and experience in knowledge exchange or research commercialisation required.
- Other info: Flexible applications encouraged; informal discussions available before applying.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 52000 £ per year.
Job Description
Knowledge Exchange Manager (25P-028)
The Pirbright Institute
Salary: £48,000 – £52,000 per annum
Location: Woking, GU24
Application closing date: 07/08/2025
Please send your cv alongside a cover letter to jobs@pirbright.ac.uk
Before applying, please consider all applicants must be eligible to work in the UK
About the Pirbright institute
The Pirbright institute delivers world-leading research to understand, predict, detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks. We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors. Our major strength in understanding the immune systems of livestock provides a platform to control current diseases and respond to emerging threats. This important research would not be possible without the proportionate use of animals, which are integral to the development of new disease control measures such as vaccines and diagnostics. We have an establishment-wide commitment to the 3rs (replacement, reduction and refinement), high standards of animal welfare, a culture of care and openness.
Our institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience. We all play a crucial role in furthering the institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; with a real focus in improving the world in which we live. Our outlook is always balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one institute’ approach.
Organisation position and purpose
Embedded within the Business Development team, an integral part of the Research and Innovation department, the position of Knowledge Exchange Manager plays a key role in maximising the Institute’s knowledge exchange and commercialisation (KEC) activities, while fostering a culture of impact and navigating a complex funding and relationship landscape. We pride ourselves on our collaborative and integrated approach, focused on enabling KEC to translate our research, skills, and expertise into tangible benefits.
The postholder will line-manage a small team of KEC professionals and oversee daily operational KEC functions, such as intellectual property management, negotiating research contracts, and maintaining and supporting positive relationships with industrial and other strategic partners. They will also act as a key contact, providing advice and support to researchers and other internal experts on all matters related to KEC.
This is an exciting opportunity to take on a broad and varied role. The Institute has a strong culture of supporting the professional development of employees, and all team members are actively supported through appropriate training and development opportunities where gaps in skills or knowledge are identified. We encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every requirement listed. Please feel free to contact us to arrange an informal discussion with the Head of Business Development to discuss the requirements of the role prior to applying.
Main duties and responsibility:
Management and leadership, which will include:
- Managing the operational activities of the KEC team, including identifying opportunities for optimisation and efficiency within a busy team environment.
- Representing the KEC function and deputising for the Head of Business Development as required, including through active participation in the Knowledge Exchange, Commercialisation, and Impact Steering Group.
- Building effective relationships to work collaboratively and share pertinent information with internal stakeholders such as the Impact Manager, Grants Administration, Finance, etc.
- Coordinating internal and external reporting on KEC and associated activities and impacts.
Managing research contracts, which will include:
- Leading on drafting, reviewing and negotiating all types of research contracts, including advising other team members on contract negotiations.
- Keeping up to date with changes in legal and regulatory frameworks affecting research agreements such as Trusted Research and Innovation and the Nagoya Protocol, and ensuring contracts align with such requirements and Institute policies .
Intellectual property management, which will include:
- Managing the Institute’s patent portfolio, from liaising with researcher and patent attorneys from invention disclosures to patent applications and engaging and negotiating with potential licensees.
- Providing expert advice to researchers on patenting and other commercial activities such as consulting, contract research, or sale of products.
Industry and partnership engagement, which will include:
- Driving engagement with industry to maximise impact of the Institute’s research, skills and expertise.
- Maintaining existing, and building new, relationships with industry and other strategic partners, and support research groups to build and maintain effective relationships.
Specific requirements
Essential
- Educated to degree level in biological or other relevant discipline
- Proven experience of working with knowledge exchange, technology transfer or research commercialisation within the biological science sector
- Strong experience with drafting and negotiating research contracts
- Solid understanding of intellectual property management and how this is influenced by public and charitable funding
- An understanding of patent management
Desirable
- Knowledge of the animal health sector
- An understanding of the impact agenda within UK research organisations
- An understanding of compliance requirements such as Trusted Research and Innovation and the Nagoya Protocol
- Experience working in a research organisation, university or similar public body
- The ability to grasp the context and understand the background of research projects in order to best advise on IP management, contract management and provide support for engaging with partners
What we offer
- Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
- 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus 10.5 public and privilege days
- Buy and sell annual leave
- Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
- Pirbright gym with subsidised membership
- Pirbright social club
- Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
- Cycle to work
- Subsidised staff restaurant
- Childcare allowance
- Free onsite parking
- Electric Car charging facilities
Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, if you have not heard from us within one month from closing date of the vacancy, then please contact us on jobs@pirbright.ac.uk for an update.
Knowledge Exchange Manager employer: The Pirbright Institute
Contact Detail:
The Pirbright Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Knowledge Exchange Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in knowledge exchange and commercialisation within the biological sciences. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of research commercialisation and knowledge exchange. Attend relevant conferences or webinars, and connect with people on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights and potentially get referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the Pirbright Institute's recent projects and partnerships. Being knowledgeable about their work will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and help you articulate how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with drafting and negotiating research contracts. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex agreements in the past, as this is a key aspect of the Knowledge Exchange Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Knowledge Exchange Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and research commercialisation. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in managing research contracts and intellectual property.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should clearly express your passion for the role and the Pirbright Institute's mission. Discuss how your background aligns with their goals, particularly in relation to animal health and research impact.
Highlight Leadership Experience: Since the role involves managing a team, emphasise any previous leadership roles or experiences where you successfully led projects or teams. Provide concrete examples of how you optimised team performance.
Showcase Industry Engagement Skills: Demonstrate your ability to build and maintain relationships with industry partners. Include examples of past collaborations or partnerships that resulted in successful outcomes, showcasing your networking skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pirbright Institute
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Knowledge Exchange Manager. Familiarise yourself with the key duties such as managing research contracts and intellectual property management, as well as the importance of building relationships with industry partners.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in knowledge exchange, technology transfer, or research commercialisation. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully negotiated contracts or managed intellectual property, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Research the Institute
Take some time to learn about The Pirbright Institute's mission, values, and recent research initiatives. This knowledge will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in contributing to their goals.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of insightful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or how the institute measures the impact of its knowledge exchange activities. This shows your enthusiasm and engagement with the role.
