At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic cancer research initiatives and manage multi-partner projects.
- Company: Join the Manchester Cancer Research Centre, a leader in innovative cancer research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 29 days annual leave, generous pension contributions, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities to influence major funding initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in cancer research while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing complex projects and leading teams in research environments.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Strategic Research and Development Lead (Secondment Cover). This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development and delivery of major cancer research initiatives across the Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC) and its partners.
Responsibilities
- Leading the development and delivery of strategic research initiatives across the MCRC and partner organisations.
- Supporting and coordinating major funding applications and developing a diversified funding portfolio.
- Building and managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders across academia, the NHS and international partners.
- Providing oversight of governance, budgets, reporting and project management for strategic programmes.
- Leading and developing a high‑performing team, including line management responsibilities.
About You
We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work. You should have:
Essential Criteria
- Significant experience managing complex multi‑partner projects within academic, clinical or research environments.
- Proven experience supporting or leading research grant applications and funding activity.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and manage teams effectively, including setting and achieving objectives.
- Strong communication, influencing and relationship‑building skills across organisational boundaries.
- Strategic thinking ability with experience delivering large‑scale initiatives and managing budgets.
Desirable Criteria
- Postgraduate research qualification or equivalent experience.
- Experience working within NHS or clinical research environments.
- Knowledge of national and international research funding landscapes.
- Experience supporting early‑career researchers or academic programme development.
- Awareness of current challenges facing higher education and health research sectors.
Benefits
- Generous employer contribution pension.
- 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure.
- Ride to work and EV car scheme available.
Strategic Research & Development Lead in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
Join us at the Manchester Cancer Research Centre, where we foster a collaborative and innovative work culture dedicated to advancing cancer research. As a Strategic Research & Development Lead, you'll benefit from generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth while working alongside passionate experts in a vibrant city known for its commitment to health and education.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Research & Development Lead in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the Manchester Cancer Research Centre. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself – you never know who might help you land that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your experience with complex projects and funding applications. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, use this to demonstrate how you can lead and manage teams effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to organisations like MCRC and express your interest in contributing to their initiatives. A little initiative can go a long way in making a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in our mission. Tailor your application to reflect your strategic thinking and relationship-building skills, and let us know how you can contribute to our exciting research initiatives.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Research & Development Lead in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in managing complex projects and leading teams. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Strategic Research & Development Lead, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past experiences, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to secure funding and manage multi-partner projects. Use numbers and examples to make your case stronger – we love a good success story!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure your passion for cancer research shines through!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in cancer research, especially those relevant to the Manchester Cancer Research Centre. Familiarise yourself with their current projects and funding initiatives, as this will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare specific examples of complex multi-partner projects you've managed. Highlight your role in coordinating these projects, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your capability to lead strategic initiatives effectively.
✨Build Relationships Before You Walk In
If possible, connect with current or former employees of the MCRC on LinkedIn. Understanding their experiences can provide valuable insights into the organisational culture and expectations, which you can reference during your interview to show that you’re proactive and engaged.
✨Prepare for Team Leadership Questions
Expect questions about your leadership style and how you manage teams. Think of examples where you’ve successfully led a team, set objectives, and achieved results. Be ready to discuss how you support early-career researchers and foster a collaborative environment.
