Head of the Research Development & Innovation Team

The University of Manchester - Biology, Medicine Health - FBMH Research and Innovation

Job reference: BMH-031088

Salary: £59,966 - £71,566 per annum, depending on relevant experience

Faculty/Organisational Unit: Biology, Medicine Health

Location: Oxford Road

Employment type: Fixed Term

Division/Team: FBMH Research and Innovation

Hours Per Week: 1 FTE

Closing date (DD/MM/YYYY): 16/04/2026

Contract Duration: 12 months

School/Directorate: FBMH Research and Innovation

We are seeking an exceptional leader to head our Research Development & Innovation Team within the Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health. In this senior strategic role, you will drive the development and delivery of our research, innovation and business engagement priorities, building strong partnerships across the University and with major industrial, academic and funding stakeholders. You will lead a high‑performing professional team, shape major collaborative funding initiatives, and provide senior-level expertise to support the Faculty’s research strengths and future opportunities. This is a dynamic, outward‑facing position ideal for someone with substantial leadership experience, excellent negotiation and relationship‑building skills, and a passion for enabling world‑class research and innovation. This post is available for one year from June 2026.

In this role, you’ll:

• Provide leadership across research development, business engagement and innovation.
• Build and strengthen partnerships with industry, funding bodies and national organisations.
• Oversee major multi‑partner funding bids and support large‑scale collaborative initiatives.
• Guide strategic planning, foster a culture of innovation and support University‑wide priorities.
• Manage a talented team delivering high‑quality professional services and impactful outcomes.

Potential interview date - 21 April 2026

What will you get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Jessica Bowler
Email: jessica.bowler@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:
Email: recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk