Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead communication of groundbreaking research and engage with diverse stakeholders.
- Company: Join the University of Reading, a top 200 global institution committed to innovation and social change.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and be part of an inclusive, vibrant community on a beautiful campus.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in research communication while enhancing the university's global reputation.
- Qualifications: Experience in research communications and strong relationship-building skills are essential.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace; applications for flexible arrangements are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Closing date 23:59 22nd September 2025
The University of Reading has been at the forefront of UK higher education for nearly a century. We are a collaborative community of innovators and pioneers, pushing academic boundaries and leading social change. We are committed to working together to address the world’s biggest challenges. We are proud to be one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities, ranked among the top 200 universities in the world (194th in the world, 27th in the UK – QS World University Rankings 2026). We are a truly international institution, operating in a highly competitive, global market.
Our 2020-2026 Strategic Plan commits the university to “challenge and transform the outlook of the students we educate, and improve the lives of our neighbours, the prospects for our country, and the future of our planet”. Working towards the plan’s culmination in 2026 and continuing beyond this, our Centenary Year, we want to significantly build on our successes to date, growing our student body and strengthening our brand and profile around the world.
We are looking for an experienced and innovative communications professional who is committed to building impactful partnerships between academia and the world. Based in our External Relations Directorate, the Research Communication & Engagement Manager will help drive forward the University’s research and innovation agenda.
- lead delivery of a stand-out programme to communicate our world-leading research to both the public and our critical stakeholders, with a particular focus on the University’s commitment and research expertise on environmental sustainability
- through this activity, support the University’s strategic activities to boost our global reputation and position us as a Top 100 university
- act as the main point of contact between the External Relations Directorate and our research community, creating and commissioning multi-channel research content.
The University of Reading is a global Top 200 institution with a strong commitment to research excellence and innovation. When you join us, you’ll join our vibrant, inclusive community, set in an award-winning Whiteknights campus, with great transport links to London and beyond and scope for flexible working.
About You
You will be a confident communicator and relationship-builder with research communications and engagement experience. You will be proactive, collaborative, and solutions-focused, with a proven track record of strategic thinking.
Ready to make an impact? Apply now and help shape the future of research at Reading.
Interviews will be held: 30 September 2025
Contact Name Vicky Pearson
Contact Job Title Director of Communication and Engagement
Contact Email address
Alternative Contact Name Pete Castle
Alternative Contact Job Title External Communications and Public Relations Manager
Alternative Contact
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Research Communication & Engagement Manager employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Communication & Engagement Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the University of Reading's research initiatives, especially those related to environmental sustainability. Understanding their current projects and goals will help you engage in meaningful conversations during networking opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current employees in the External Relations Directorate on LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide insights into the team culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Attend relevant conferences or webinars focused on research communication and engagement. This not only enhances your knowledge but also expands your professional network, making it easier to find potential advocates within the university.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully built partnerships between academia and external stakeholders. Highlighting your strategic thinking and collaborative approach will demonstrate your fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Communication & Engagement Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements for the Research Communication & Engagement Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in research communications and engagement. Use specific examples to demonstrate your strategic thinking and relationship-building skills, as these are crucial for this role.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for research and communication. Discuss your understanding of the University’s mission and how you can contribute to their goals, particularly in environmental sustainability and global reputation enhancement.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are essential qualities for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Understand the University's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the University of Reading's strategic plan and its commitment to research excellence and environmental sustainability. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Research Communication & Engagement Manager, strong communication skills are essential. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex research to diverse audiences, highlighting any innovative strategies you've employed.
✨Demonstrate Relationship-Building Experience
Be ready to share specific instances where you've built impactful partnerships between academia and external stakeholders. Discuss your approach to collaboration and how it has led to successful outcomes in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Strategic Thinking Questions
Expect questions that assess your strategic thinking abilities. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you approached them strategically. Be ready to articulate your thought process and the results of your actions.
