Head of Operations and Engagement Oxford Centre for Emerging Minds Research

University of Oxford - Departments of Psychiatry and Experimental Psychology

Location: Oxford

Salary: £56,623 to £65,336 per annum : Grade 9

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 5th September 2025

Closes: 24th September 2025

Job Ref: 181682

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

The Oxford Centre for Emerging Minds Research is a newly funded research centre to conduct world class research that contributes to a world where differences between children and young people are understood and accepted, strengths are capitalised on, and mental health difficulties are prevented or addressed early in life. The Head of Operations and Engagement will be a key member of the senior management team providing both operational oversight and strategic leadership.

About the Role: The post is funded to 30 September 2030 and is based in the Department of Experimental Psychology, Life and Mind Building. The post is full time; however, consideration would be given to candidates wishing to work part-time on a pro rata basis (minimum 80% FTE). The post is available on a flexible hybrid basis. The minimum on-site time is 3 days/week for a full time post. You will support the research centre Director and Deputy Director by establishing and maintaining effective policies and procedures for the research centre, and overseeing the day-to-day functions of the centre, including finance, communications and partnership management. You will support the smooth running of the centre advisory board and represent the centre externally including identifying collaborative opportunities that align to the mission of the centre.

About You: You will have an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline along with significant experience of strategic research management within large complex organisations. Proven experience of working at strategic level with academic research collaborations, cross-sector partners, and/or research funders is essential as is servicing committees and overseeing governance structures. With senior project management experience, you will be able to prioritise your workload to accomplish a diverse range of responsibilities, dealing effectively with individuals at all levels.

Diversity: Committed to equality and valuing diversity. Our active Psychiatry People and Culture teams and initiatives including our values and behaviours framework work to make the Department of Psychiatry as supportive, welcoming and inclusive as possible.

Application Process: You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application. Please see the University pages on the application process at https://www.jobs.ox.ac.uk/application-process. The closing date for applications is 12.00 midday 24 September 2025. Interviews will take place on 10 October 2025 in the Life and Mind Building and will be in person.