Research Manager, Discovery Research
Research Manager, Discovery Research

Research Manager, Discovery Research

Full-Time 55000 - 55000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
WELLCOME TRUST

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage and deliver impactful research projects while collaborating with diverse communities.
  • Company: Join Wellcome, a leader in funding and supporting innovative research.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and a commitment to diversity.
  • Other info: Flexible working options and a collaborative, inclusive culture await you.
  • Why this job: Make a global impact by supporting inclusive research and building strong partnerships.
  • Qualifications: Broad research experience and excellent communication skills are essential.

The predicted salary is between 55000 - 55000 £ per year.

Contract type: Permanent

Salary: £55,000

Closing date: Thursday, 14 May 2026

About the role

You will manage and deliver projects that support the Discovery Research team to convene communities, fund research and track progress in line with its strategy, working closely with internal and external partners. By building strong relationships and coordinating activities such as evaluation, collaboration and reporting, you will play a key role in helping the team deliver its goals and maximise the impact of its work.

Responsibilities

  • Deliver Discovery Research work by convening communities, supporting funding decisions, producing reviews and reports, and applying relevant technical expertise to specific projects.
  • Build and share a strong understanding of Discovery Research and the wider research and funding landscape, contributing knowledge and insight across the team and Wellcome.
  • Support effective stewardship of Wellcome’s funding portfolio by monitoring research progress, research culture and diversity and inclusion, and maintaining active relationships with applicants and grant‑holders.
  • Work with advisors, funders, partners and the research community to support high‑quality decision‑making and clearly communicate Discovery Research priorities and funded activity.
  • Manage and coordinate Discovery Research initiatives and awards, acting as a key contact for defined projects and working collaboratively across teams to achieve shared outcomes.
  • Deliver work to agreed timelines and budgets, managing risks, compliance and quality of outputs while contributing to a collaborative, inclusive and values‑led working culture.

Minimum Criteria

  • Able to demonstrate a breadth of research expertise in a relevant field through relevant work experience in an academic, industrial, funding agency or charity setting.
  • Experience/knowledge of universities, funders and other relevant scientific and research organisations and communities.
  • Ability to employ diverse approaches to effectively communicate complex information to individuals and groups from a range of different backgrounds and different seniority levels.
  • Well‑developed writing skills with ability to synthesise information conveying key points clearly and concisely.
  • Experience/knowledge of managing projects in an academic or industry setting.

Who might be a good fit?

This role is suited to someone with broad research experience who is excited by discovery research and the strategic questions around how research is funded, supported and shared. You will enjoy working across disciplines and cultures, communicating complex ideas clearly, managing multiple projects, and building credibility with researchers, funders and partners — including those working in low‑ and middle‑income country (LMIC) contexts. If you are collaborative, intellectually curious and motivated by supporting excellent, inclusive research with global impact, this could be the right role for you.

Hybrid Working

We provide a flexible working environment with 3 days in the Euston Road office (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) and the remaining 2 days either remote or in the office.

Diversity and Inclusion

Wellcome is committed to cultivating a fair and inclusive environment and is happy to discuss flexible working options for all roles. We endeavour to make our recruitment processes as inclusive as possible to everyone.

Research Manager, Discovery Research employer: WELLCOME TRUST

Wellcome is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, making it an ideal place for those passionate about discovery research. With a commitment to diversity and flexible working arrangements, employees benefit from a supportive environment that encourages professional growth and impactful contributions to global research initiatives. Located in the vibrant Euston Road area, the company offers a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse range of partners and communities, enhancing both personal and professional development.
WELLCOME TRUST

Contact Detail:

WELLCOME TRUST Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Manager, Discovery Research

✨Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with people in the research community! Attend conferences, webinars, or local meet-ups. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.

✨Show Off Your Expertise

When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back on showcasing your research experience. Share specific examples of projects you've managed and how they made an impact. This is your time to shine!

✨Tailor Your Approach

Every conversation is a chance to tailor your pitch. Make sure you understand the Discovery Research landscape and align your skills with their needs. This shows you’re not just another candidate; you’re the right fit!

✨Apply Through Our Website

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Manager, Discovery Research

Project Management
Research Expertise
Stakeholder Engagement
Communication Skills
Writing Skills
Data Synthesis
Collaboration
Evaluation
Monitoring and Reporting
Understanding of Research Funding
Diversity and Inclusion Awareness
Risk Management
Adaptability
Cultural Competence

Some tips for your application 🫡

Know the Role Inside Out: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Research Manager role is all about. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and skills. This will help us see how your experience aligns with what we're looking for.

Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since well-developed writing skills are a must for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Be clear and concise, and don’t shy away from showcasing your ability to synthesise complex information. We want to see your best writing!

Tailor Your Application: Generic applications just won’t cut it! Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences that match the criteria in the job description. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in research and project management.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at WELLCOME TRUST

✨Know Your Research Landscape

Before the interview, dive deep into the Discovery Research field and the wider research and funding landscape. Familiarise yourself with current trends, key players, and recent developments. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the role.

✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills

Be ready to discuss specific projects you've managed in the past. Highlight how you coordinated activities, managed timelines, and ensured quality outputs. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to juggle multiple projects while maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders.

✨Communicate Clearly and Concisely

Practice explaining complex ideas in simple terms. Since the role involves communicating with diverse audiences, think of ways to convey your points clearly. You might even want to prepare a few examples where you successfully communicated intricate information to different groups.

✨Emphasise Collaboration and Inclusion

This role values collaboration and inclusivity, so be prepared to share experiences where you worked effectively with diverse teams. Discuss how you fostered an inclusive environment and supported underrepresented voices in your previous roles, aligning with Wellcome's commitment to diversity.

Research Manager, Discovery Research
WELLCOME TRUST

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>