Jisc, the UK's Joint Information Systems Committee, plays a pivotal role in advancing digital capabilities for higher education and research. Established to support universities, colleges, and research councils, Jisc delivers world-class digital infrastructure, services, and advice. Jobs at Jisc attract professionals passionate about technology's impact on education, offering roles that blend innovation with public service. From IT specialists to policy experts, careers here contribute to national priorities like open access research and cyber security for academia.
The organization employs around 800 staff across the UK, with opportunities in strategic leadership, technical delivery, and support functions. Whether you're a data scientist optimizing research repositories or a project manager implementing AI tools for learning, Jisc provides a dynamic environment to shape the future of UK higher education.
Founded in 1993 as the Joint Information Systems Committee, Jisc evolved from earlier initiatives in the 1980s to coordinate computing services for UK universities. By 2002, it became an independent company owned by the UK's public research and higher education funding bodies. Key milestones include launching the Janet network in 1984 (now a high-speed research network), pioneering supercomputing services in 2009, and expanding into cloud and data services post-2015. Today, Jisc invests £100m+ annually in services like the National Research and Education Network and Research Data Cloud, supporting over 10 million users.
This evolution reflects Jisc's adaptation to digital shifts, from early internet access to AI-driven research support, making it a stable employer with long-term funding from UKRI and other bodies.
Careers at Jisc span technical, professional, and leadership roles. Common positions include:
For a full list of university job types, explore our guide. Jisc roles emphasize collaboration with universities, often requiring hybrid skills in tech and education policy.
Entry-level roles typically require a bachelor's degree in IT, computer science, or related fields, with 2+ years experience. Mid-senior positions demand master's or PhD, especially for research-focused roles like data stewards.
Key skills include proficiency in cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud), programming (Python, R), data governance, and agile project management. Competencies like strategic thinking, stakeholder management, and innovation are essential, as Jisc teams work cross-functionally with academics.
Preferred experience: Publications in edtech journals, grants from UKRI, or prior work in higher ed IT. Check how to write a winning academic CV for tips.
Applications start on Jisc's careers portal. Submit CV, cover letter, and diversity form. Process: Online application, competency interview, technical assessment, final panel.
Tips: Tailor applications to Jisc values (collaboration, innovation). Use STAR method for behavioral questions. Highlight impact metrics, e.g., 'Led project reducing data costs by 20%'. Network via Jisc events or LinkedIn. Prepare for values-based interviews. See higher ed career advice for more.
Jisc champions EDI through the Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2021-2025, targeting 50% women in senior roles by 2025 (achieved 45% in 2023). Networks include Women in Tech, BAME, and Pride groups. Training covers unconscious bias, and recruitment uses blind CVs. Partnerships with Scope and Stonewall promote accessibility. 30% ethnic minority staff, above sector average.
Jisc offers flexible hours, hybrid work (3 days office), 30 days holiday, enhanced maternity/paternity leave. Offices in modern hubs like Harwell Campus feature collaborative spaces, gyms, and cafes. Employee surveys show 85% satisfaction with balance. Culture emphasizes wellbeing with mental health days and EAP. Social events foster community across sites.
Jobs at Jisc offer impactful careers in higher ed tech. Explore more higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com.
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