The University is seeking applications from colleagues across the University who are keen to develop their careers further by undertaking a 6 year secondment to the role of Dean for Post-Graduate Research Studies and Researcher Development. This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a senior academic leadership role and to make a positive impact and commitment to supporting research excellence and the development of post-graduate research students and researchers at an important time for the University.

The Dean is responsible for managing and leading the Graduate School, providing academic leadership and coordination of Postgraduate Research Studies and Researcher Development at the University and playing a leading role in the recruitment of new research students. 

The Dean contributes to University-wide strategic research leadership as a member of the University Committee for Research and Innovation and also contributes to the wider leadership of the University as a member of the University’s Leadership Group. 

Following the REF submission in March 2021, the University will embark on the development of a “2026 Research and Innovation Plan”, to implement the priorities of the University’s Research and Innovation Strategy. The appointed Dean will be expected to actively participate in these discussions and in supporting the implementation of the Plan and the wider University Strategy. 

The Dean will also have responsibility for chairing other Research Committees and will lead initiatives relevant to the remit of the role including, but not limited to, the implementation of the Concordat for Researcher Development 

The Dean will be required to work effectively and collaboratively with a range of stakeholders; the Director of the Graduate School and their team, Research Deans, School Directors of Post-Graduate Research Studies, leaders of Doctoral Training Partnerships and Centres for Doctoral Training across the University, and Professional Service staff from various Functions. 

Candidates for this important role are expected to have relevant and recent experience of academic leadership and line management, a demonstrable commitment to the development of Postgraduate Research Students and Early Career Researchers, and a personal track record of research excellence. 

To view the role description and person specification for the role, please follow the link below.

We are committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce and we particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic colleagues who are currently under-represented within the University of Reading at this Leadership level. We also welcome applications where a flexible working pattern and/or where a job share is proposed. Job-share applications need not indicate who the other half might be although coordinated applications from two separate members of staff are welcomed. In this instance, however, each candidate will be assessed on their own merit in terms of their suitability in fulfilling the requirements of the role.

Appointing salary for the term of the role: Professorial Zone 2, Pt1 (unless appointed candidate is on a higher salary, in that instance the person will move into the role on their current salary) + honorarium of £8,250 per annum (pro-rata where appointments are made on a part time/job share basis).

The application will require the submission of a statement of suitability and interest (1000 words max) and the attachment of an up to date CV by Friday 26 February 2021.

Interviews will be held on Thursday 22 April 2021