Head of Research Governance in Bristol

An exciting vacancy has arisen for a strategic and experienced leader to join the University of Bristol as Head of Research Governance. This senior leadership position sits within the Division of Research, Enterprise and Innovation (DREI), playing a business‑critical role in our mission to maximise the University’s positive impact on the world. You will be the University’s primary lead and recognised professional officer for research regulation, ethics, and integrity. The Research Governance Team provides expert navigation through the regulatory complexities of research involving human participants, tissue, and data.

• Acting as the Sponsor representative for the University under Health Research Authority (HRA) requirements.
• Providing strategic leadership to the University Ethics of Research Committee.
• Overseeing compliance with the Concordat to Support Research Integrity.
• Managing a diverse team of specialists to ensure high scientific, ethical, and financial standards.

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates who have an HEI or NHS background with the authority to influence national strategy and manage institutional risk, wanting to step into the University and influence research from Global to Local level.

What will you be doing?

• Be the primary lead and recognised professional for the University in areas of research regulation, ethics and integrity.
• Lead on and shape the Research Governance team, establishing a clear future vision, structure and functions.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge and monitor and respond to existing and future developments in legislation and guidance to inform the development of policy and strategy in partnership with the University’s key ethics and governance bodies.
• Manage internal and external statutory audits and regulatory inspections.
• Provide expert support to the Pro‑Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation for conduct queries and allegations of potential research misconduct.

You should apply if you have:

• A professional or degree level qualification or a proven track record or relevant work extensive work experience.
• Substantial knowledge and experience of legal and compliance issues surrounding research governance, ethics and integrity, and the legislative framework impacting on Research Governance in Universities or NHS.
• Experience in a leadership role, including change management and the ability to build consensus by leading teams and working collaboratively.
• Demonstrable record of influencing strategy at a senior level.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

These are our ideal requirements, but we know some people are less likely to apply for the role unless they are 100% qualified. The University promotes a supportive and empowering culture, please apply if you meet the majority of these competencies.

Additional information

• Contract type: Open ended
• Work pattern: Full time
• Grade: L
• Salary: £59,966 - £67,468 per annum
• School/Unit: Division of Research, Enterprise and Innovation

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Sunday 19th April. Interviews are expected to take place in May - date TBC. For informal queries about the role, please contact Dr Helen Young, Director of Research Excellence, on helen.young@bristol.ac.uk.

Our strategy and mission

We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values. The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives—particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people—because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.