Job Description
Main Purpose of the Job
The main purpose of this role is to project manage and enable the development of strategic research programme grants within the Earlham Institute (EI).
Key Relationships
INTERNAL: Reporting to the Head of the Research Faculty Office. This role will also work closely with groups across the Institute, in particular the strategic programme leads, research leaders, post-docs, the Technical Genomics project managers,, Business Development and Communication teams, executive assistants, and the shared support service teams such as Contracts and Finance.
EXTERNAL: Strategic partners in academia and industry, UK and international scientists, principal investigators and funding bodies.
Main Activities & Responsibilities
Management of EI research programmes, this will include:
• Preparing, co-ordinating and leading the submissions of scientific business cases/grants: collating material, providing text, critical proof reading of documents and papers.
• Establishing the timeline and planning for projects, monitor the delivery, identify any delays or problems to achieve early resolution.
• Create, maintain and manage central records during the lifetime of the project: tracking the progress of objectives and milestone delivery, budgets, invoices, and a lessons log.
• Supporting project leaders in the coordination of the planning and delivery of outputs.
• Organise effective project meetings.
• Maintaining records of programme and project meetings, ensuring good communication.
• Coordinating the drafting and final submission of annual/interim/final grant reports, including researchfish.
• Contributing to presentations and press releases by drafting and critical reviewing of text.
• Liaise with programme stakeholders and partnersSupport the strategic development of new Institute level research programmes:
• Facilitate discussions to turn ideas into actionable elements such as draft grant objectives, synergistic funding opportunities, identifying partner researchers or organisations.
• Work to identify and communicate common themes and needs across developing programmes.
• Maintain records of these discussions and ensure good communication.Liaising between with the Research Faculty (work package leaders and researchers) and Operations Division: Chief Operating Officer, Technical Genomics, Earlham Biofoundry, Communications, Business Development & Impact and Advanced Training.Support the Head of the Research and Faculty Office and Director by drafting reports and briefing notes for the Executive team, Senior Management Team and Board of Trustees.As agreed with line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the role.
Person Profile
Education & Qualifications
RequirementPhD in a relevant scientific disciplinePRINCE II Project Management foundation or equivalent
Specialist Knowledge & Skills
RequirementWorking knowledge of project management productivity tools and principlesAbility to work in a fast-paced environment and maintain effective performance when under pressure; meeting the needs of end-users in a timely way Excellent organisational skillsCompetence in the use and application of IT systems and computer packagesGood critical thinking to facilitate problem resolutionProficiency in project management productivity tools, able to develop and implement effective processesSkilled in analysing qualitative and quantitative dataGood knowledge of molecular biology and computational methods for sequence analysis and interpretation
Relevant Experience
RequirementInterpreting discussions, preparing an actionable written record of key discussion pointsWorking in a research area relevant to the InstituteTrack record in scientific writingWriting progress reportsExperience of project managementExperienced in the management of large-scale projectsRunning effective hybrid meetingsTrack record of contributing to the acquisition of diverse research funding (UK, EU and International)Budget managementScience-related event planning and executionTaking minutes of scientific discussions
Management and Leadership
RequirementDemonstration of matrix management skills applied across an organisation or project
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
RequirementExcellent communications skills, both written and oral, including the ability to present complex information with clarityDemonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skillsDemonstrates a commitment to high personal and professional standards. Assumes responsibility and accountability for the successful completion of projects, assignments or tasksGood interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a teamGood negotiation skills, able to deal with difficult situations and negotiate agreed solutionsSkilled in facilitationAble to act as an ambassador for the Research Faculty/Institute and build key relationships locally on the park and externally
Additional Requirements
RequirementWillingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to workAble to present a positive image of self and the institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement of the InstituteAbility to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriateAttention to detailPromotes equality and values diversityAbility to undertake occasional travel related to collaborations and/or seminarsWillingness to occasionally work outside standard working hours when required