Head of Theme - Population Health Research Infrastructure

Hours: Full time or Part time (minimum 0.8 FTE)

Contract Type: Fixed Term (18 months)

Location: Polaris House, Swindon, Wiltshire / Caxton House, London – Hybrid working

The role entails leading MRC’s management of its research portfolio in population health science. This includes overseeing key UKRI infrastructural programs such as UK Biobank, Population Research UK, and the Adolescent Health Study. As the knowledge-holder of scientific issues pertaining to this remit, responsibilities span across staying abreast of new research developments, fostering research partnerships, and addressing policy-related matters. Overseeing peer review procedures for relevant research funding is integral, alongside acting as the primary interface for stakeholders internally (across MRC sections and UKRI partners) and externally (including researchers, funding agencies, and policymakers). Assistance to MRC/UKRI leadership in developing and implementing scientific initiatives and policy is also part of the role, as is the development and management of funding opportunities and innovative initiatives.

Person Specification

• PhD (relevant to the work of the MRC), or equivalent higher degree in research
• A background in population health science, or research aligned to this, whether in research or policy
• Experience working in health research management and familiarity with UK medical or biological research in Universities and the NHS
• Experience in developing and managing strong partnerships and relationships inside and outside the organization, handling conflicts, and building consensus to deliver key objectives.
• Ability to handle, analyse and present complex information (eg. scientific, financial, policy, ethical)
• Negotiating solutions in conflicting and politically sensitive environments
• Shown experience of representing an organisation at a senior level and the influencing favourable outcomes
• Ability to engage in scientific issues, with credibility at all levels
• Ability to think and plan strategically in research, relating long-range goals to short-term action
• Ability to lead, motivate and develop individuals within a team, and empower others to take responsibility for delivery of business objectives
• High level of insight and credibility in population science / medical research and research funding issues
• Able to address your motivation and clearly state how you meet the criteria of the role in a cover letter (Max 2 pages)

Additional information:

You will be required to frequently work in the opposite (Swindon) office and be willing to stay overnight and work long hours on an occasional basis. Additional, infrequent UK & European travel may also be necessary.

Benefits

We recognise and value our employees as individuals and aim to provide a favourable pay and rewards package! We are committed to supporting employees' development and promote a culture of continuous learning!

• An outstanding defined benefit pension scheme
• 30 days' annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full time equivalent)
• Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities
• Employee assistance programme, providing confidential help and advice
• Flexible working options

Plus many more benefits and wellbeing initiatives that enable our employees to have a great work life balance!

UKRI is an Equal Opportunity & Disability Confident Employer.

How to apply:

For full details on the role, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above. Please submit an application including your CV and a Cover Letter that clearly showcases how your skills and experience align to the requirements of the role.