SOAS is a unique institution, a University dedicated to the study of the human condition with a special focus on Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. It is dedicated to a study of the planetary questions of our historical moment, but it tries to understand these from the perspective of the Global South. In fulfilling this mandate, SOAS has brought together an incredible array of scholars, students and professionals who are dedicated to academic excellence and social justice, all of whom are intent on changing our world for the better.
We have an ambitious new strategy which re-affirms our commitment to global excellence and our vision to build a research-intensive university which is world-class and responsive to the marginalised communities of our world. SOAS recently featured in the Top 50 universities in the world for addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022, Development Studies ranked 2nd in the world. The 2021 Research Excellence Framework continued to consolidate our position as a leading institution for social sciences, arts, and humanities research.
We are investing in our people and facilities, and we are now seeking a Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange who can articulate and help guide SOAS on its journey to further enhance its status as a research-intensive institution. As a senior member of the School’s professional services team, reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Director will help shape a new Directorate and will play a key part in developing and implementing the plans and initiatives needed to underpin our research and knowledge exchange strategy. You will work closely with the Pro-Director Research and Enterprise and build strong relationships with the soon to be appointed Heads of College and their academic leads for Research and Knowledge Exchange.
We are seeking a strategic and creative thinker, with a strong track record of developing research and knowledge exchange strategies and leading and delivering excellence and service improvement across the breadth of this portfolio. They will have the credibility, leadership and influencing skills to shape and develop a new Directorate; as well as a deep understanding of the Research Excellence Framework (REF), the Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF), and research and knowledge exchange funding in the UK (and globally), with a particular focus on Arts & Humanities and Social Science research.
This role offers the opportunity to make a substantive contribution to SOAS and we are seeking someone who will maximise the reach and depth of impact from our research and knowledge activities, with a particular focus on enhancing collaboration. We are particularly interested in individuals who are interested in making a difference in a University that is committed to social justice, thereby making a significant impact on the UK and the world.
We would particularly welcome applications from candidates from working class, first generation Higher Education, the Global South, Black, Asian or other minority ethnic and underrepresented groups. All appointment decisions will be made on merit, following a fair and competitive process.
A competitive salary will be on offer to the successful candidate.