Research Excellence (REF) Impact Officer (Fixed Term)

Job description

Salary
£35,608 to £47,389 per annum depending on skills and experience.

Closing Date
Wednesday 21 October 2026

Interview Date
To be confirmed

Reference
SCI670426X3

We are looking for a friendly, engaging, enthusiastic person to join Science as part of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) teams. The role will play a key role in the planning and delivery of the Impact and Engagement elements of the REF submission. The role holder will work closely with Unit of Assessment (UoA) leads and impact case study authors, supporting the identification, development and preparation of REF impact case studies and statements, as well as providing advice and guidance on the impact element of REF and support in the delivery of impact review activities.

The role supports the Chemistry (UoA8) and Physics (UoA9) Units of Assessment and will primarily based at the University Park campus. The role holder will be able to spend some time working from home if desired:

As a Research Excellence Framework (REF) Impact Officer you will:

• Work with impact case study authors to develop and enhance potential impact case studies for submission to REF2029. This will involve developing a narrative, gathering and storing evidence to support case studies and liaising with external bodies as required.
• Provide expertise to UoAs on REF impact case study eligibility and development.
• Develop best practice in terms of Impact Case Study identification, development and write up.
• Support periodic reviews of progress for REF2029 ensuring records are kept securely and up to date.
• Liaise with colleagues from other UoAs to identify and support cross UoA case studies.

And you will bring:

• Highly developed verbal and written communication skills with the ability to engage with staff at all levels and to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving capabilities including an ability to research information sources
• The ability to work independently and use own initiative and judgement
• The ability to prioritise individual elements of a programme whilst working under pressure, achieving targets and responding quickly and flexibly to changing demands and new opportunities.

Awareness of the Research Excellence Framework and how Impact and Engagement relate to research, alongside the ability to work calmly under pressure, against tight deadlines whilst paying close attention to detail are essential. Experience working in Higher Education and supporting the operational aspects of a national research assessment submission would be beneficial but not essential.

We welcome applications from people who will enhance the diversity of our teams. The University is committed to creating opportunities for people traditionally under-represented in higher education.

The role is a fixed term (until 31 December 2028), full time post (36.25 hours per week).

Previous applicants need not apply.

Please contact Sophie Richardson ( [email protected] ) to discuss the roles. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.