At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research and engagement initiatives to tackle societal challenges.
- Company: University of Leeds, a leader in interdisciplinary research and global impact.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to co-creating positive societal change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by shaping inclusive future societies through impactful partnerships.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in societal challenges and strong leadership in research.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Deputy Director (Research & Engagement), Leeds Institute for Societal Futures (LISF) Grade 8 Professional Service Staff / Grade 9 / 10, 0.4 FTE. Open to Academic or Professional Service Staff.
Are you an ambitious academic leader with extensive experience leading research and engagement initiatives? Do you have a commitment to developing and delivering compelling strategic plans to drive interdisciplinary research and innovation, policy, impact and engagement? Can you demonstrate a track record of developing and maintaining effective partnerships with external stakeholders, communities and third sector organisations?
The University of Leeds Strategic Plan (2020-2030) sets out an ambition to place the University at the heart of a global network, finding innovative solutions to regional, national, and global challenges. Key to delivering this vision is the development and launch of two Futures Institutes (Societal and Climate) that will exemplify our strategy to combine research and innovation, knowledge exchange, and education, to deliver global impact. LISF will generate additional academic outcomes that could not be achieved by individual faculties or schools, through a focus on interdisciplinary and trans-disciplinary collaborations; and will enhance the University\\\'s external standing and impact in major global challenge areas. The Institute will also remove barriers for inter-faculty research, collaboration and postgraduate education and become recognised centres of excellence for tackling global challenges and driving world-changing research, education and knowledge exchange through impactful international partnerships. LISF addresses complex societal challenges through interdisciplinary research, impactful education, and collaborative engagement with stakeholders across sectors. Within our Research and Engagement area of work, LISF will facilitate the co-creation and delivery of research and innovation, working in partnership with policymakers, businesses, government bodies and the public to shape our inclusive future societies. The Institute will further engage in impact and outreach activities, from the local to the global, to co-create positive societal change, and develop quality, long-lasting partnerships for collaboration. It aims to become a sector leader for co-creation, co-production and external collaboration, championing the value of a truly collaborative approach to knowledge exchange and embodying a true revolving doorway model of co-production across impact generation and research development. This Deputy Director post is available within LISF\\\'s leadership team. The successful applicant will support the Director of LISF, working alongside one other Deputy Director (Education) and the Head of LISF to deliver on the Institute\\\'s mission by leading the delivery of the research and engagement strategic vision. The post-holder will work across the University, engaging LISF\\\'s community and external organisations. This is an exciting opportunity to develop your own strategic research & engagement vision and resource its delivery. You will grow your internal and external profile and networks, whilst at the same time making a real contribution to increasing the breadth, quality and ambition of interdisciplinary, challenge-led research at the University. As a founding member of the Institute\\\'s leadership team, you will lead a truly innovative agenda that will make the University a more accessible Institution for external engagement through the generation of significant new partnerships and an inclusive, accessible and supportive model for engagement and knowledge exchange.
Possessing a detailed current knowledge of the HE research and engagement landscape, you will have a PhD or equivalent experience in a societal-challenge topic and substantial experience in developing, supporting, leading and/or delivering impactful, co-produced research and engagement activities, including substantial external partnership and stakeholder relationship experience. You will enhance LISF\\\'s and the University of Leeds\\\' external reputation and leadership by promoting innovative initiatives on research and engagement related to societal futures.
Responsibilities- Lead the delivery of LISF\\\'s research and engagement strategic vision in collaboration with the Director, another Deputy Director (Education) and the Head of LISF.
- Work across the University to engage LISF\\\'s community and external organisations; develop and grow partnerships and knowledge exchange activities; help co-create research and innovation with policymakers, businesses, government bodies and the public.
- Support development of inclusive, accessible engagement and knowledge exchange models; contribute to building a revolving door model of co-production across impact generation and research development.
- PhD or equivalent experience in a societal-challenge topic; substantial experience in developing, supporting, leading and/or delivering impactful, co-produced research and engagement activities; substantial external partnership and stakeholder relationship experience.
- Possessing a detailed current knowledge of the HE research and engagement landscape.
Deputy Director (Research & Engagement) in Leeds employer: University of Leeds
The University of Leeds is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. As part of the Leeds Institute for Societal Futures, you will have the opportunity to lead impactful research initiatives while engaging with diverse stakeholders, contributing to meaningful societal change. With a strong commitment to employee development and a culture that values inclusivity and interdisciplinary collaboration, this role provides a unique platform for professional growth and the chance to make a significant difference in addressing global challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director (Research & Engagement) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend conferences, workshops, and local meet-ups related to research and engagement. It's all about making connections that could lead to opportunities, so don’t be shy – introduce yourself and share your passion for societal challenges.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a personal website or LinkedIn profile that highlights your research achievements and engagement initiatives. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate how you can contribute to the LISF's mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the University of Leeds and its strategic goals. Understand their vision for the LISF and think about how your experience aligns with their objectives. This will help you articulate your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director (Research & Engagement) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Deputy Director role. Highlight your experience in leading research and engagement initiatives, and how it aligns with our mission at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Partnerships:We want to see your track record of developing effective partnerships! Share examples of how you've collaborated with external stakeholders and communities, as this is key to driving our interdisciplinary research and innovation.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas and experiences, making it easy for us to see how you can contribute to our strategic vision.
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 this exciting opportunity at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Leeds
✨Know Your Strategic Vision
Before the interview, take some time to really understand the strategic vision of the Leeds Institute for Societal Futures. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their mission of interdisciplinary research and engagement.
✨Showcase Your Partnerships
This role requires a strong track record in developing partnerships. Come armed with specific examples of successful collaborations you've led or been part of. Highlight how these partnerships have driven impactful research or societal change, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of the HE Landscape
Make sure you're up-to-date with current trends and challenges in higher education research and engagement. Being able to discuss recent developments or case studies will show that you’re not only knowledgeable but also passionate about the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect questions around co-production and collaborative models. Think of scenarios where you've successfully engaged stakeholders from various sectors. Be ready to discuss how you would implement similar strategies at LISF to foster inclusive and accessible engagement.
