Research Office Lead – Competitive Salary, Strategic Role & Career Growth

Are you looking for a well-compensated and stable opportunity to shape research strategy in higher education? The position of Research Office Lead offers a full-time, permanent role with a salary range of €81,474 to €101,536 annually. This is an excellent opening for someone passionate about supporting academic advancement and securing external research funding on a large scale.

With responsibilities focused on leading research initiatives, building partnerships, and managing research projects, you will also guide a talented team. The job is tailored for those who are ready to combine hands-on project work with broad strategic thinking—ideal for professionals with significant experience in research management.

The selection process will favour candidates who have a master’s degree or higher and at least four years’ relevant experience in the university or higher education sector. If you want to make a genuine impact within a prestigious institution, this could be the opportunity you’ve been searching for.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

Expect to oversee the development and delivery of research strategies across the entire institution. This includes providing specialist advice and ensuring the smooth preparation of complex funding applications. You’ll work closely with both senior leadership and researchers to align funding opportunities with academic goals.

On a daily basis, the role involves strategic planning, compliance monitoring, team leadership, and maintaining effective relationships with both internal staff and external bodies. You’ll have oversight of budgets, contract negotiations for awarded projects, and ensure strict adherence to research ethics and governance.

A typical week may see you collaborating with diverse consortia, preparing workshops for researchers, or troubleshooting a major application. Moreover, there’s a significant focus on capacity-building—empowering staff to secure national and international research funds more successfully.

The position is multifaceted, ensuring no two days are quite the same. You’ll combine office leadership with hands-on project management, making this an ideal fit for someone who thrives in dynamic, collaborative academic environments.

Advantages of the Role

Notably, the permanent, high-salary contract allows for significant financial and job security. The institution’s commitment to staff development gives you opportunities for future career growth and strategic input.

You’ll work closely with respected researchers and external partners, building a broad network within the sector. Hands-on involvement in shaping college-wide research strategy also means your work will have a measurable, positive impact.

Challenges to Consider

This position comes with multiple, complex responsibilities that require juggling priorities—so impeccable organisation and time management skills are essential. Meeting the expectations of both senior managers and external funders may prove demanding.

Some projects will involve tight deadlines and high stakes, requiring resilience and quick thinking. The need for deep familiarity with funding regulations and compliance leaves little room for error, particularly in budget oversight and project reporting.

Endgültiges Urteil

For experienced research administrators seeking a stable, well-paid role with real influence, this opportunity stands out. The position offers rewarding work and the chance to guide strategy, but it’s best suited to those who thrive under responsibility. If you match the criteria and enjoy seeing your efforts enable academic success, this could be the right next step for your career.