Research Development Manager

The Opportunity

The University of Edinburgh is looking to recruit a team of three exceptional, motivated Research Development Managers (RDMs), one in each of the three Colleges, to provide coordination and support for major strategic interdisciplinary initiatives. Aligning with the recently launched Research & Innovation Strategy , the RDMs will focus on capacity-building in three key Research Missions:

• Shaping the Future of Health and Care, main focus for the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) post
• Harnessing Data, Digital and AI for Public Good, main focus for the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (CAHSS) post.
• Tackling the Climate and Environmental Crisis, main focus for the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine (CMVM) post.

The aim of each Mission is to support the University of Edinburgh transform the world today, tomorrow and into the future. A Mission provides an overarching grand challenge which is underpinned by a small number of emergent Challenge Areas. 

Each of the three posts available are full-time (35 hours per week), however, we are open to considering part-time or flexible working patterns. We are also open to considering requests for hybrid working (on a non-contractual basis) that combines a mix of remote and regular on-campus working. 

The successful candidates will work closely with colleagues in Edinburgh Research Office (ERO), as well as in other key areas which span the Research Missions, and will support the delivery of decisions made by the University’s Major Initiatives Group to support and invest in the Challenge Areas.

Your skills and attributes for success:

• Demonstrated project management and organisational skills, with experience of dealing with conflicting demands and prioritising workload for a diverse portfolio of activities to meet deadlines. 
• Able to horizon scan, spot opportunities and take the initiative to ensure they are acted upon.
• Able to take an abstract concept or idea and turning it into a proposal, business plan or funding application. 
• Ability to develop networks and work effectively with a wide range of people, including senior managers and academics. 
• Experience of working in, or leading cross-organisational teams.