Imperial College London
Head of Research Policy Development and Partner Engagement
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Job ref: PRO01385
Salary: £69,365 - £79,257 per annum
Closing date: 29 Jul 2026
About the role
Shape research policy and influence the global research agenda
In alignment with our institutional vision, the newly established Research Strategy Team at Imperial College London aims to enhance our research ecosystem by fostering a proactive and engaged approach to research strategy development.
These positions are central to our ambition of fostering a proactive, strategic approach to research development, enhancing our engagement with funders, and driving innovation through coordinated, high-impact initiatives. By joining this newly established team as Head of Research Policy Development and Partner Engagement you will play a central role in shaping institutional research policy, strengthening strategic relationships, and positioning Imperial as a global thought leader in research excellence.
Working within the Research Strategy Team in the Office of the Vice‑Provost (Research and Enterprise), this role sits at the intersection of research policy, strategy, governance, and external engagement, providing authoritative advice to senior leaders and building influential networks across government, funders, and the higher education sector.
What you would be doing
As Head of Research Policy Development and Partner Engagement, you will lead the development and review of Imperial’s research principles, aims, and policies, ensuring alignment with institutional strategy and responsiveness to an evolving national and international policy landscape.
You will work closely with academic leaders, professional services colleagues, and external partners to interpret and influence research policy, anticipate regulatory change, and strengthen Imperial’s reputation and standing.
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Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the development, review, and embedding of institutional research principles, aims, and values
- Analysing government, funder, and regulatory developments and advising senior leadership on academic and strategic implications
- Working in close partnership with the Research Support and Compliance Division to ensure effective policy alignment and implementation
- Building and sustaining influential networks with policymakers, funders, sector bodies, and partner institutions
- Positioning Imperial as a thought leader in research policy through engagement, advocacy, and strategic communications
- Contributing to institutional research strategy and long‑term strategic planning
- Horizon scanning for emerging issues, opportunities, and risks in the research policy environment
- Representing the Vice‑Provost (Research and Enterprise) at relevant policy‑facing meetings when required
- Line‑managing and developing a small specialist team, fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high‑performing culture
You will act as a trusted advisor, sounding board, and bridge between policy, strategy, and delivery, ensuring Imperial remains agile, influential, and strategically aligned.
What we are looking for
You will be an experienced policy and engagement leader with:
- Significant experience in senior roles requiring diplomacy, judgement, and influencing at institutional or sector level
- A strong track record in developing and implementing research‑related policy within a higher education, government, or research‑focused environment
- Deep understanding of the UK and international research policy and governance landscape
- Proven ability to analyse complex regulatory and funding changes and translate them into clear, strategic advice
- Outstanding writing, analytical, and conceptual skills, with the ability to frame persuasive institutional narratives
- Credibility and confidence engaging with senior academics, policymakers, funders, and external partners
- Experience leading and developing staff in complex matrix environments
- Strong political awareness, strategic insight, and a collaborative leadership style
- A postgraduate qualification or equivalent professional experience in a relevant research area is essential.
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What we can offer you
Imperial College London is a world‑leading university where research drives global impact. This role offers a rare opportunity to influence how research policy is shaped and enacted at one of the world’s foremost science and technology institutions.
We are guided by our values of respect, collaboration, excellence, integrity, and innovation, and are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Join us and help shape the policy environment that enables world‑changing research.
Further information
This is a full-time, open-ended position based at South Kensington and White City campus (hybrid).
Should you require any further details on the role please contact Emily Roche, Head of Research and Enterprise Strategic Projects at e.roche@imperial.ac.uk
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