Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. To this end, NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.
As from 1/4/26, the Agenda for Change full-time working week will be reducing from 37 to 36 hours per week. Part time hours will be reduced pro-rata. However, there will be a corresponding increase in the hourly rate so that pay will not be affected.
We will fully support disabled candidates, and candidates with long-term conditions or who are neurodivergent by making reasonable adjustments to our recruitment policy and practices.
Please note: we anticipate a high level of interest in this position and may close the vacancy early once a sufficient amount of applications are received. Therefore, please make sure you complete and submit your application at an early stage.
To work in the United Kingdom, there is a legal requirement for an individual to demonstrate that they have the relevant permission to work in the country. This permission is, without exception, granted by the UK Visa and Immigrations Service. Further information on what NHS Scotland Boards are required to do to check this as well as what your responsibilities include can be found in the further information for this vacancy.
Usher Building,
The University of Edinburgh
5-7 Little France Road
Edinburgh BioQuarter- Gate 3
Edinburgh
EH16 4UX
Hybrid working, minimum 2 days per week in office
36 h working over 5 days per week (Mon-Fri)
NHS Lothian is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Head of Research Governance to provide strategic leadership and expert oversight of research governance across the organisation.
The role is based within the Academic and Clinical Central Office for Research and Development (ACCORD), the joint NHS Lothian and University of Edinburgh office for research sponsorship and governance.
About the Role;
You will lead on the full spectrum of research governance activity, ensuring robust quality management systems, clear accountability, regulatory inspection readiness and continuous improvement. You will work closely with clinical, academic and corporate colleagues, as well as external partners, to support high-quality research that benefits patients, staff and the wider health and social care system.
What You will Bring:
Educated to postgraduate level in a clinical or life-sciences related discipline
Extensive experience of conducting or managing research in the NHS
Detailed knowledge of relevant legislation and regulatory frameworks
Experience in quality assurance and/or monitoring roles
Proven senior management experience, including leading change
Excellent communication, influencing and negotiation skills
Strong organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail