Do you have experience of setting up systems, organising, planning and implementing improvements and supporting the roll out of strategies in a Research and project management setting? Do you relish the opportunity to collaborate with others to find long-term solutions and achieve successful project outcomes? If so, we would welcome your application to this ongoing, full-time role.
The Research Development Manager will work in partnership with the KMMS Director of Research and research support administrators at all levels to implement the KMMS research strategy, meet research and enterprise/ innovation income targets, establish and maintain networks, foster the development of high-quality outputs and build a sustainable and inclusive research culture.
A member of the KMMS Professional Services management team, the Research Development Manager will provide direction and support in all areas of research administration and policy within the School. The role holder will work closely with appropriate university colleagues to ensure KMMS administrative requirements are met, guiding and helping to drive forward the work of the new Research Support Joint Service Delivery Team across KMMS, the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University and the regional NHS organisations.
As Research Development Manager you can expect to be involved in:
* Establishing and managing all research and innovation related processes, policies and procedures in KMMS to implement the KMMS Research Strategy, lead to income generation and world leading research opportunities and support the University of Kent's institutional commitment to the Concordat to Support Research Integrity.
* Providing administrative leadership and sound governance of research activities (producing data, management information and reports and providing support for all research related meetings)
* Monitoring KMMS research and innovation activity and evaluating progress on the KMMS Research Strategy implementation plan.
* Supporting KMMS with research Exercise Framework and Knowledge Exchange Framework submissions, working with academics, Research and Innovation Services, external Stakeholders and Unit of Assessment Coordinators to demonstrate strong impact case studies
What will you bring to the role?
* Experience of and a passion for start-up environments and project management and solid knowledge of the challenges inherent in this type of environment
* A commitment to continuous improvement
* A proven track record of applying for grants in a research environment and increasing revenue and
* Experience of establishing and supporting collaborative partnerships between academic, NHS, social care, local authority and/or business sectors
* Experience of successfully managing staff, with well-developed team management skills and a clear passion for developing motivated staff and strong teams
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Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact quoting reference number KMMS
We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates as they are under-represented at this level in this area
* Occasionally we may need to close a vacancy before the published deadline due to a high number of applications being received, therefore we strongly advise you to submit your application as soon as possible. (All vacancies will be open for at least one week.)
PLEASE NOTE: We prioritise applications from current University of Kent redeployees. We will let you know if this post is to be filled by a redeployee as, in this instance, your application will unfortunately not be taken forward.
We know applicants may use AI tools to help prepare job applications. For guidance on how to use AI responsibly and effectively, see: Using AI in your job application
Applications must be made via the University's online application system; CVs or details sent directly to the department or via email cannot be considered.
The University of Kent values diversity and equality at all levels.
Section
Kent and Medway Medical School
Location
Canterbury
Salary
£39,355 to £44,128 per annum
Grade
Grade 7
Post Type
Full Time
Contract Type
Permanent
Release Date
Monday 29 September 2025
Closing Date
23.59 hours BST on Sunday 05 October 2025 (unless otherwise stated*)
Interview Date
Wednesday 29 October 2025
Reference
KMMS-305-25