At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the development of impactful research case studies for REF2029.
- Company: Join a leading university committed to research excellence and diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with a focus on enhancing research engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in research impact while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and analytical abilities are essential.
The predicted salary is between 35608 - 47389 £ per year.
Salary: £35,608 to £47,389 per annum depending on skills and experience.
Area: Science
Location: UK
Closing Date: Sunday 24 May 2026
We are looking for six friendly, engaging, enthusiastic people to join Science (3 roles) and Medicine and Health Sciences (3 roles) as part of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) teams. These roles will play a key role in the planning and delivery of the Impact and Engagement elements of the REF submission.
Role holders will work closely with Unit of Assessment (UoA) leads and impact case study authors, supporting the identification, development and preparation of REF impact case studies and statements, as well as providing advice and guidance on the impact element of REF and support in the delivery of impact review activities. The six roles are split across nine REF UoAs and based at different campuses:
- 1 – Computer Science (UoA11) and Mathematical Sciences (UoA10);
- 2 – Chemistry (UoA8) and Physics (UoA9);
- 3 – Agriculture, food and Veterinary Sciences (UoA6);
- 4 – Psychology, Psychiatry & Neuroscience (UoA4) and Biological Sciences (UoA5);
- 5 – Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing & Pharmacy (UoA3) and Public Health, Health Services and Primary Care (Uo2);
- 6 – Clinical Medicine (UoA1) and Sports Sciences (Uo24).
Responsibilities
- Work with impact case study authors to develop and enhance potential impact case studies for submission to REF2029. This will involve developing a narrative, gathering and storing evidence to support case studies and liaising with external bodies as required.
- Provide expertise to UoAs on REF impact case study eligibility and development.
- Develop best practice in terms of Impact Case Study identification, development and write up.
- Support periodic reviews of progress for REF2029 ensuring records are kept securely and up to date.
- Liaise with colleagues from other UoAs to identify and support cross UoA case studies.
Qualifications
- Highly developed verbal and written communication skills with the ability to engage with staff at all levels and to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
- Proven analytical and problem‑solving capabilities including an ability to research information sources.
- The ability to work independently and use own initiative and judgement.
- The ability to prioritise individual elements of a programme whilst working under pressure, achieving targets and responding quickly and flexibly to changing demands and new opportunities.
- Awareness of the Research Excellence Framework and how Impact and Engagement relate to research, alongside the ability to work calmly under pressure, against tight deadlines whilst paying close attention to detail are essential.
- Experience working in Higher Education and supporting the operational aspects of a national research assessment submission would be beneficial but not essential.
We welcome applications from people who will enhance the diversity of our teams. The University is committed to creating opportunities for people traditionally under‑represented in higher education. These are fixed‑term (until 31 December 2028), full‑time posts (36.25 hours per week). Previous applicants in the last 6 months need not apply. Your application will be considered on an equal basis, subject to the relevant permission to work in the UK as set out by UK Visas & Immigration.
Research Excellence (REF) Impact Officer (Fixed Term) in Nottingham employer: University Of Nottingham
Contact Detail:
University Of Nottingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Excellence (REF) Impact Officer (Fixed Term) in Nottingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those already working in REF roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the REF process and its impact on research. Show us you know your stuff and can contribute to the team’s goals!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to convey complex ideas clearly, so grab a friend and do some mock interviews to polish your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Excellence (REF) Impact Officer (Fixed Term) in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the Research Excellence Framework (REF). Familiarise yourself with the impact case studies and how they relate to the REF. This will help you tailor your application to show that you're the perfect fit for the team.
Show Off Your Skills: Highlight your verbal and written communication skills in your application. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you've successfully engaged with different stakeholders and conveyed complex information clearly. We want to see how you can bring your expertise to our team!
Be Yourself: Let your personality shine through in your application! We’re looking for friendly and enthusiastic individuals, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are. A bit of your unique flair can make your application stand out from the crowd.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at University Of Nottingham
✨Know Your REF Inside Out
Make sure you understand the Research Excellence Framework and its impact elements. Familiarise yourself with how impact case studies are developed and what makes them eligible. This knowledge will help you engage confidently during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role requires highly developed verbal and written communication skills, prepare to demonstrate these in your interview. Think of examples where you've successfully conveyed complex information clearly, especially in a collaborative environment.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Problem-Solving
Prepare to share specific instances where you've tackled challenges or conducted research effectively. Highlight your analytical capabilities and how you've used them to support project goals, especially under pressure or tight deadlines.
✨Emphasise Your Initiative and Flexibility
The role demands the ability to work independently and adapt to changing demands. Be ready to discuss times when you've taken the initiative or adjusted your approach to meet new opportunities or challenges in your work.