Head of Research Support & Knowledge Exchange

Research Office

Please note: this opportunity is only available to current employees of the University

We are the University of Cumbria, for and from Cumbria and our localities, rooted in serving our communities, with people, place and partnership at our heart. 

Now is a very exciting time to be joining us because we are delivering a new "Towards 2030" strategic plan focused on making the most of our three most valuable assets; People, Place and Partnerships, to become a catalyst for economic well-being for our region, nationally and internationally. 

We are seeking an experienced, highly skilled Head of Research Support and Knowledge Exchange, to take the lead on strategic and operational support of the university’s Research and Knowledge Exchange plan. You will play a key part in the progressive and creative development of the service, encouraging the development of our culture to one which is more research inclusive and knowledge exchange intensive.

With our recent attainment of Higher Education Innovation Funding and an increase in core research funding following REF2021, RKE-GS is seeking to enhance its service to internal/external academic communities, and to strengthen awareness and understanding about how our research and knowledge exchange positively impacts society. We are looking for somebody who is keen to help us realise our vision and meet the challenges of developing and delivering an exemplary professional service to the university community.

You will be able to demonstrate experience in establishing best-practice operations gained from research-inclusive and knowledge exchange intensive environments. You should also have experience contributing to higher education environments undergoing significant change, alongside the ambition, skills, and track record to ensure rapid success.

We offer a comprehensive set of staff benefits which includes a competitive salary, 35 days holiday plus bank holidays, hybrid working in line with business need, excellent pension scheme with 8% employer contribution. For more information please click HERE

For more information about the University of Cumbria, click here.

Informal Enquiries

Professor Karen Shaw | Director of Research & Knowledge Exchange | Karen.Shaw1@cumbria.ac.uk | 07718 191151