Queen’s University Belfast is seeking to appoint a Research Impact & Engagement Officer, available to 31 July 2026 in the first instance, to cover a period of maternity leave. The role sits within the Research Strategy and Engagement Team in the Research & Enterprise Directorate, and will also contribute to delivery of wider strategic projects across the research impact and engagement portfolio.
You will work in close partnership with academic and professional colleagues across the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences (MHLS) to support and enhance research engagement and impact. This includes providing expert guidance to researchers at all career stages on embedding impact across the research lifecycle, supporting the development and review of impact case studies for REF 2029, and contributing to evidence gathering, planning, and reporting activities. The role will also involve liaising with senior stakeholders and acting as a bridge between the Faculty and central REF team.
About the person:
You will have experience of the research impact and engagement agenda in higher education or a research performing organisation, and a strong understanding of how research makes a difference beyond academia. Excellent communication and relationship-building skills are essential, as is the ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and influence diverse stakeholders. Experience of REF or similar research assessment exercises is desirable.
To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information.
Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.
What we offer:
Queen's University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI and Athena Swan and have established staff networks such as iRise (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International Staff Network) and PRISM (LGBTQ+) which help us progress equality.
If you are an international applicant and don't already hold a visa that permits you to take up the role you are applying for, please use the information provided on our website to self-assess whether the University is likely to be able to support a visa application - .