Director of Research and PGR

Placed On: 25th March 2026

Closes: 20th April 2026

Job Ref: GSe131189

Lead the next stage of research ambition at the University of Staffordshire

This is an exciting time to join the University of Staffordshire. We recently unveiled our new name and brand identity, a bold step forward in repositioning ourselves as the UK’s leading modern university. With a stronger, more confident and compelling voice, we are celebrating diversity, opportunity and inclusivity, and reinforcing our commitment to being a catalyst for change across our region and beyond.

The Role

As Director of Research and Postgraduate Research, you will lead the University’s research ambition at an institutional level, operating in a highly influential capacity. Reporting to the Pro‑Vice‑Chancellor Education and Research, you will be responsible for the development and delivery of the Research Strategy, driving improvements in research culture, capability and performance across disciplines.

You will provide institutional leadership for the Research Excellence Framework, ensuring robust governance, assurance and research integrity, while driving improvement in the quality, impact and visibility of our research. Alongside this, you will lead the postgraduate research agenda, working closely with Associate Deans, the Professoriate and professional services to enhance the PGR experience and support sustainable growth.

A credible and influential research leader, you will operate confidently across a complex environment, using insight, evidence and collaboration to shape direction, build engagement and deliver impact. You will champion an inclusive research culture in which staff and students are supported to thrive and contribute to research that is ambitious, responsible and future‑focused.

About You

• A post‑doctoral qualification with a credible and established research profile
• A strong understanding of the higher education sector, including its future direction at both regional and national levels
• Highly developed analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex quantitative and qualitative data and translate insight into clear strategic priorities
• An experienced and credible senior leader, comfortable operating in high‑profile and evolving environments, with a leadership style that promotes openness, transparency and empowerment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence thinking and shape institutional direction

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to shape the next phase of research and postgraduate growth at a university with clear ambition, momentum and purpose. You will work in an environment that values innovation, insight and expertise, where bold ideas are encouraged and delivered at pace. The University of Staffordshire offers a supportive and empowering culture, providing the platform to make a lasting impact and to further develop your leadership career.

University of Staffordshire has engaged the services of Gatenby Sanderson, to whom applications should be sent at your earliest convenience but no later than 9.00am on Monday 20 April 2026.

For an informal conversation regarding the role, please contact Valentina Serra (valentina.serra@gatenbysanderson.com). To view the job description and person specification and to apply for the role, please click the Apply button.