At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate research evaluations and support the preparation for national assessment exercises.
- Company: Join the University of Oxford, a world-leading institution with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, flexible working, and a generous family leave scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community that champions your wellbeing and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on groundbreaking research that tackles global challenges.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and experience in managing complex processes.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About the role
The Research Services Department plays a vital role in supporting the University's world-leading research community. Working across all divisions, the department provides expert advice and comprehensive administrative support throughout the entire research lifecycle – from identifying funding opportunities and developing grant proposals to managing awards, contracts, and compliance. With a focus on fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence, Research Services ensures that Oxford's researchers have the resources and guidance they need to deliver impactful research that advances knowledge and benefits society.
Joining the department means contributing to a dynamic, professional team that underpins the success of one of the world's foremost research institutions. The department's work is guided by a set of core values that reflect its commitment to integrity, professionalism, and service. Research Services values collaboration and open communication, recognising that the best outcomes arise from strong partnerships within and beyond the University. The team strives for excellence in everything it does, delivering high-quality, transparent, and responsive support to researchers. Inclusivity, respect, and continuous improvement are central to its culture – ensuring that all staff are empowered to contribute, develop, and innovate in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
The Research Strategy & Policy Unit (RSPU) in Research Services provides support for institutional research strategy and policy. This includes research strategy development and coordination, research evaluation and insight, research information, support for the University's main research-related committees, management of strategic internal funding streams, and the development and coordination of institution-wide research policies. The Unit has 20 members, is led by the Director of RSPU, and is divided into four sub-teams covering research evaluation; research information; research planning; and research practice. Members of the Unit work directly with and support the agenda of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research (PVC (Research)), as well as other research leaders in the academic divisions and their senior teams.
The Research Evaluation team is the central function responsible for coordinating submissions to periodic national research assessment exercises, the most recent of which was the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, and the next exercise is REF 2029. The post holder will support institutional preparations for REF 2029 by coordinating information sharing and internal communications, managing specific REF processes, supporting REF-related committees and ensuring the smooth co-running of the RSPU office.
To ensure the effective operation of RSPU, by supporting senior staff, and coordinating cross-cutting initiatives and operations in RSPU; to support institutional preparations for the next national research assessment exercise, by coordinating communications for support staff in REF-related roles, managing specific REF processes, and supporting REF-related committees.
Essential selection criteria
- Demonstrable ability to assimilate complex requirements and guidance.
- Excellent organisational skills, experience in diary management and organising meetings and events, and following up on agreed actions.
- Strong administrative skills, able to design and implement effective processes and procedures; experience of implementing complex cross-system processes, particularly for gathering and maintaining data.
- Ability to communicate effectively and appropriately, both orally and in writing, with a wide range of people within and external to the University.
- Able to build effective working relationships with, and gain the trust and confidence of, a wide range of colleagues at varying levels of seniority.
- Capacity to manage your own time, work to deadlines and to work independently and as part of a team, with a pro-active approach to problem-solving.
- Ability to work consistently with care, precision, and meticulous attention to detail, particularly in relation to complex and detailed guidance requiring specialist knowledge.
- Proven ability to work with tact and discretion, respecting confidentiality and data protection.
- Very good skills in office IT systems, including Email, MS Office applications such as Excel, Word, and Teams; with the ability to learn and use new software and systems.
Desirable selection criteria
- Experience of professional services support for REF 2021 and/or other national research assessment exercises at a HEI.
Benefits
- 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 5 extra days and additional leave after long service.
- One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
- A commitment to hybrid and flexible working.
- An excellent contributory pension scheme.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
- Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
Research Evaluation Coordinator employer: University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. With a commitment to inclusivity and employee wellbeing, staff enjoy generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave, a robust family leave scheme, and flexible working options, all while contributing to impactful research that addresses global challenges. Joining the Research Services Department means being part of a prestigious institution where your contributions are valued and your career can flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Evaluation Coordinator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the Research Services Department. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the department's recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission of supporting impactful research.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since the role involves liaising with various stakeholders, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently will set you apart from the competition.
✨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 about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Evaluation Coordinator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out:Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Research Evaluation Coordinator role is all about. Dive into the job description and highlight the key responsibilities and skills required. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit the bill!
Show Off Your Organisational Skills:Since this role requires excellent organisational skills, don’t shy away from showcasing your experience in managing diaries, organising meetings, and following up on actions. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've successfully handled similar tasks.
Communicate Clearly and Confidently:Effective communication is key in this position, so make sure your written application reflects that. Keep your language clear and concise, and don’t forget to proofread for any typos or errors. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is super important for this role!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about us and what we stand for at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with the latest developments in research evaluation and the specific processes related to REF 2029. This will not only show your enthusiasm for the role but also demonstrate your ability to assimilate complex requirements, which is crucial for this position.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed projects or events in the past. Highlight your experience in diary management and coordinating meetings, as these skills are essential for supporting senior staff and ensuring smooth operations within the team.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to discuss how you’ve built effective working relationships in previous roles, as strong communication is key to gaining trust and confidence from colleagues at all levels.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Bring along examples of your work that showcase your meticulous attention to detail, especially in relation to complex guidance. This could be reports, presentations, or any documentation where precision was vital. It’s a great way to illustrate your capability to handle the detailed aspects of the role.
