Trusted Research Partner

The Trusted Research Partner (TRP) will play a leading role in shaping and supporting the University's approach to research security and compliance. Reporting to the Assistant Director RSSD (Head of Contracts Policy & Compliance) and working closely with the College Hub Leadership Teams, the TRP will provide expert advice on key regulatory frameworks, including Export Control, the National Security & Investment Act, the Nagoya Protocol and due diligence. This senior post will support the development of policy and practice across RSSD, contribute to institutional training and risk mitigation, and work in close partnership with senior academic leaders. The role is particularly suited to candidates with experience of supporting STEM disciplines in a research support or governance setting, and who are confident in engaging with scientific content and advising on regulatory considerations in a dynamic, research-intensive environment.

Main Duties

Work closely with the Assistant Director RSSD and College Hub leadership teams to shape and embed the University's internal framework for Trusted Research. This includes developing practical tools and policies to support compliance with legislation such as Export Control, the Nagoya Protocol, and funder due diligence requirements.

Act as a key contact for Trusted Research queries—reviewing cases, supporting referrals to ECJU and RCAT, and drafting export licence applications where needed. Offer clear, pragmatic advice to senior academic and professional services leaders on risks and possible mitigations linked to international collaborations, data security, and strategic contracts.

Take a lead role in reviewing and refining processes, ensuring that policies remain responsive to emerging risks and regulatory changes. Proactively liaise with stakeholders to maintain up-to-date guidance and demonstrable compliance across all core areas of the Trusted Research agenda.

Help to build the University's understanding of research security through institution-wide training and tailored guidance. Work closely with academic and professional services colleagues to raise awareness of regulatory requirements in a way that supports responsible international collaboration.

Maintain strong working relationships with colleagues across RSSD and key services such as Birmingham Global, Legal Services, and Development and Alumni Relations. Remain well-connected to developments in legislation and good practice, and contribute to internal networks that foster joined-up, collegiate approaches to research risk management.

Support the development of light-touch tracking and reporting mechanisms to capture the volume, nature, and outcomes of Trusted Research referrals. Contribute to high-quality internal papers, briefings, and reports to inform decision-making and strengthen the University's control environment.

Deputise for the Assistant Director RSSD when required, providing representation and expert input in internal and external meetings. Contribute to strategic initiatives and change programmes related to Trusted Research and regulatory compliance.

Actively support the University's commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion by contributing to a respectful and enabling working culture across RSSD.

Undertake any other tasks commensurate with the level of the role, as required from time to time.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience

Educated to degree level or with equivalent professional experience gained in a research-intensive or regulatory environment.

Proven experience of supporting academic research in a governance, compliance, or risk management role, ideally within STEM disciplines.

Experience of providing senior specialist support to complex issues relating to legal compliance and regulatory functions including assessing risk, with an ability to disseminate that expertise to others to ensure understanding and compliance at all levels of the University.

Proven ability to write clearly for a variety of audiences, and to produce and analyse source material, information and data.

Authoritative knowledge of the geopolitical issues impacting the UK and/or overseas research funding environment, including broader sector/commercial awareness.

Substantial experience of engaging, and collaborating, with internal and external stakeholders in matters relating to regulatory and contractual compliance.

Excellent interpersonal and management skills, with proven experience of managing complex processes and engaging with peers and staff who are not direct reports.

Excellent analytical skills with an ability to analyse complex qualitative and quantitative information and present conclusions clearly and concisely.

Judgement and proven problem-solving skills that will help to identify and implement improvements and efficiencies across the service area and beyond.

Excellent communication skills, including orally and in writing, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively with a range of stakeholders.

Highly proficient IT skills, including the MS Office suite. Confident and able to quickly learn new IT skills and software packages as required.

High level of self-motivation and personal accountability with ability to plan and deliver goals to deadlines under pressure.

Experience of championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and ability to monitor and evaluate the extent to which equality and diversity legislation, policies, procedures are applied.

Ability to identify issues with the potential to impact on protected groups and take appropriate action.

Benefits

The University offers 40 days paid holiday a year, one paid day a year for volunteering, occupational sick pay, and a pension scheme. There are three high quality subsidised day nurseries on campus. The Birmingham Professional programme provides all professional services staff with development opportunities. The campus is situated in leafy Edgbaston with excellent transport links, a state-of-the-art sports centre with pool, shops, places to eat and drink, an art gallery, museum and botanical gardens.