Programme Manager, Innovation Programmes

NIHR (National Institute for Health and Care Research); Twickenham; Hybrid; GBP 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading health research organization in Twickenham is seeking a Programme Manager to drive the NIHR Invention for Innovation programme. The role involves overseeing project funding, conducting assessments, and fostering relationships across the healthcare sector. Ideal candidates will possess an MSc or PhD in biomedical or health sciences along with strong analytical and communication skills. This full-time position features a hybrid work model and a competitive salary of £40,300, with various additional benefits.

Benefits

Annual bonus, subject to company performance

Enhanced Contributory Pension Scheme

Life Insurance Cover

Benenden Healthcare Membership

Training and Development Opportunities

Season Ticket Loan

Qualifications

• Experience in a research setting, research management, or technology transfer is essential.
• Knowledge of intellectual property and commercialisation is advantageous but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage funding processes and monitor funded projects.
• Conduct due diligence on project proposals and evaluate aspects.
• Build effective relationships with stakeholders.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication abilities

Planning skills

Relationship-building

Education

MSc or PhD in biomedical or health sciences

Job description

We’re Hiring: Programme Manager – NIHR i4i Programme

Are you passionate about accelerating healthcare innovation? Join us in delivering cutting-edge solutions that make a real difference to the NHS and the wider UK economy.

We’re looking for a Programme Manager to support the day-to-day delivery of the NIHR Invention for Innovation (i4i) programme, a vital initiative funding breakthrough technologies to transform patient

About Us.

The LGC Grant Management Group is part of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), funded by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). NIHR supports world-leading health and social care research in collaboration with the NHS, academia, and international partners. It promotes health improvements and economic growth, including research in low- and middle-income countries. The NIHR’s operations are managed by two coordinating centres: the NIHR Coordinating Centre (hosted by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Southampton, and LGC) and the Clinical Research Network Coordinating Centre (CRNCC). Their work is overseen by DHSC leadership.

The Job

The Programme Manager will support the delivery of the NIHR Invention for Innovation (i4i) programme by managing funding processes and monitoring funded projects. Responsibilities include conducting due diligence on project proposals, analysing their rationale, and reviewing intellectual property and commercialisation plans with senior support. The role also involves managing a portfolio of funded projects, tracking key outputs, and assessing the impact on the NHS and UK economy. The Programme Manager will contribute to improving operational processes and must build effective relationships with stakeholders such as entrepreneurs, academics, and clinicians. Strong interpersonal skills, the ability to work under pressure, and managing competing deadlines while maintaining high-quality outcomes are essential.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Support all stages of translational research funding (theme development, applicant guidance, application review, committee coordination, feedback).
• Conduct due diligence on funding proposals, evaluating scientific, financial, IP, and commercial aspects.
• Negotiate funding agreements, including milestones and reporting terms.
• Manage funded projects, monitoring progress, IP, finances, and making contract adjustments as needed.
• Engage with stakeholders, represent the funder in meetings, and promote funding programmes.
• Contribute to team improvements and draft operational guidance.
• Support broader strategic and departmental initiatives.

About You

Essential Criteria:

• MSc or PhD in biomedical or health sciences
• Experience in a research setting, research management, or technology transfer
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex scientific, technical, or clinical issues across healthcare sectors
• Excellent communication, presentation, and writing abilities
• Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise and meet demanding deadlines
• Collaborative team player with proven relationship-building skills
• High attention to detail and accurate record keeping

Desirable Criteria:

• Knowledge of intellectual property and commercialisation is advantageous but not essential (training provided)

Compensation, Benefits & Working Arrangements:

• Salary: £40,300
• Location: Twickenham, London / Hybrid working model
• Contract Type: Full Time, Permanent
• Working Hours: 7.5 hours per day
• Annual Leave: 25 days, plus UK public holidays

Employee Benefits Include:

• Annual bonus, subject to company performance
• Enhanced Contributory Pension Scheme
• Life Insurance Cover
• Benenden Healthcare Membership
• Training and Development Opportunities
• Season Ticket Loan

This is a Twickenham, office based, hybrid role, with an expectation for all employees to attend our offices a minimum of one day a week, four days a month, and may increase, subject to team requirements.

Application

If you are excited about the prospect of joining our team and believe you possess the relevant skills and background, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV along with a 'Statement of Suitability' that showcases your key skills and experiences in relation to the 'Essential Criteria' outlined in the job description. Additionally, share your enthusiasm for working with NIHR.

NB: Closing date for applications is 5pm on the 19 August, interviews to be held remotely from 26 August through to 3 September.

Our Commitment to Equality and Diversity

LGC strongly believes that every job applicant and employee should be valued for their individual talents regardless of age, disability, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion, or belief. Short listing, interviewing and selection will always be carried out without regard to gender, sexual orientation, marital status, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age, or trade union membership.