About the role
The Research Services Department plays a vital role in supporting the University's world-leading research community. Working across all divisions, the department provides expert advice and comprehensive administrative support throughout the entire research lifecycle – from identifying funding opportunities and developing grant proposals to managing awards, contracts, and compliance. With a focus on fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence, Research Services ensures that Oxford's researchers have the resources and guidance they need to deliver impactful research that advances knowledge and benefits society. Joining the department means contributing to a dynamic, professional team that underpins the success of one of the world's foremost research institutions.
The department's work is guided by a set of core values that reflect its commitment to integrity, professionalism, and service. Research Services values collaboration and open communication, recognising that the best outcomes arise from strong partnerships within and beyond the University. The team strives for excellence in everything it does, delivering high‑quality, transparent, and responsive support to researchers. Inclusivity, respect, and continuous improvement are central to its culture – ensuring that all staff are empowered to contribute, develop, and innovate in a supportive and forward‑thinking environment.
The Research Strategy & Policy Unit (RSPU) in Research Services provides support for institutional research strategy and policy. This includes research strategy development and coordination, research evaluation and insight, research information, support for the University's main research‑related committees, management of strategic internal funding streams, and the development and coordination of institution‑wide research policies. The Unit has 20 members, is led by the Director of RSPU, and is divided into four sub‑teams covering research evaluation; research information; research planning; and research practice. Members of the Unit work directly with and support the agenda of the Pro‑Vice‑Chancellor for Research (PVC (Research)), as well as other research leaders in the academic divisions and their senior teams. The Research Evaluation team is the central function responsible for coordinating submissions to periodic national research assessment exercises, the most recent of which was the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, and the next exercise is REF 2029. The post holder will support institutional preparations for REF 2029 by coordinating information sharing and internal communications, managing specific REF processes, supporting REF‑related committees and ensuring the smooth co‑running of the RSPU office.
To ensure the effective operation of RSPU, by supporting senior staff, and coordinating cross‑cutting initiatives and operations in RSPU; to support institutional preparations for the next national research assessment exercise, by coordinating communications for support staff in REF‑related roles, managing specific REF processes, and supporting REF‑related committees.
Essential selection criteria
* Demonstrable ability to assimilate complex requirements and guidance.
* Excellent organisational skills, experience in diary management and organising meetings and events, and following up on agreed actions.
* Strong administrative skills, able to design and implement effective processes and procedures; experience of implementing complex cross‑system processes, particularly for gathering and maintaining data.
* Ability to communicate effectively and appropriately, both orally and in writing, with a wide range of people within and external to the University.
* Able to build effective working relationships with, and gain the trust and confidence of, a wide range of colleagues at varying levels of seniority.
* Capacity to manage your own time, work to deadlines and to work independently and as part of a team, with a pro‑active approach to problem‑solving.
* Ability to work consistently with care, precision, and meticulous attention to detail, particularly in relation to complex and detailed guidance requiring specialist knowledge.
* Proven ability to work with tact and discretion, respecting confidentiality and data protection.
* Very good skills in office IT systems, including Email, MS Office applications such as Excel, Word, and Teams; with the ability to learn and use new software and systems.
Desirable selection criteria
* Experience of professional services support for REF 2021 and/or other national research assessment exercises at a HEI.
Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires," the University of Oxford has been ranked the world's leading university for nine consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world‑changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you'll contribute to ground‑breaking research that tackles global challenges – from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions – and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.
Benefits
* 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 5 extra days and additional leave after long service.
* One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
* A commitment to hybrid and flexible working.
* An excellent contributory pension scheme.
* Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
* Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
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