Head of Research Policy Development and Partner Engagement

Head of Research Policy Development and Partner Engagement

Shape research policy and influence the global research agenda

About the role

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.

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.

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.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We work towards equality of opportunity, to eliminating discrimination, and to creating an inclusive working environment for all. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries, and are committed to employing a team that has diverse skills, experiences and abilities.