University Research Impact Manager

Aston University; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training opportunities

Flexible working

30 days annual leave

Bank holidays & closures

On-site gym and pool

Staff discounts

Job summary

Aston University seeks an experienced Research Impact professional to join the Research Services team in Birmingham. You will help shape Aston's research impact agenda and support colleagues in turning research into meaningful benefits beyond academia.

The role focuses on REF 2029 preparation and cross‑university collaboration to maximise impact. You will work under the Director of Research Services, building relationships and guiding researchers to enhance impact, with flexible working options

Qualifications

• Experience in developing and supporting research impact.
• Strong understanding of the Research Excellence Framework.

Responsibilities

• Lead on REF 2029 preparations and engage with colleagues across the University.
• Identify, nurture and develop impactful research activity to maximise reach.
• Build the confidence and capability of researchers to maximise impact beyond academia.

Job description

ClosingDate: 23.59 hours BST on Tuesday 01 September 2026

InterviewDate: Monday 14 September 2026

Reference: 1167-26

ReleaseDate: Tuesday 11 August 2026

Aston University is seeking an experienced and passionate research impact professional to join our supportive and collaborative Research Services team. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape and strengthen the University's research impact agenda and support colleagues in delivering meaningful, far-reaching benefits through their research.

Reporting to the Director of Research Services, you will play a leading role in preparing for REF 2029, working closely with academic colleagues across the University to identify, nurture and develop impactful research activity. You will help build both the confidence and capability of researchers to maximise the reach and significance of their work, ensuring research makes a positive difference beyond academia.

This 12-month opportunity has arisen to provide temporary cover for our University Research Impact Manager. As part of a friendly, committed and highly motivated team, you will make an important contribution to Aston University's REF 2029 preparations while supporting a culture of impact, collaboration and excellence.

We are looking for someone who brings experience of developing and supporting research impact, alongside a strong understanding of the Research Excellence Framework. You will be a skilled relationship-builder with excellent communication skills, capable of working in partnership with colleagues at all levels to inspire, guide and support impact development across the institution.

If you are motivated by helping others succeed, enjoy working collaboratively, and are excited by the opportunity to contribute to a thriving research environment, we would love to hear from you.

The position is available either as a secondment opportunity or as a fixed-term employment contract from 12 October 2026 for 12 months. While the role is advertised on a full-time basis, Aston University is committed to supporting flexible ways of working. We welcome applications from candidates interested in part-time hours or other flexible working arrangements, which can be discussed at interview.

What we offer:

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers
• Great family friendly policies
• On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here

This role does not meet the eligibility criteria for new applicants to the Skilled Worker visa route.

The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.