Manager, Research Operations- School Of medicine

Simon Fraser University; England; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university in the UK is seeking a Manager for Research Operations to lead and coordinate research activities efficiently. This role ensures compliance with institutional priorities and enhances operational effectiveness across the full research life cycle. Candidates should have a Master’s degree in relevant fields and at least five years of experience in medical or academic settings. The position supports partnerships and aims to improve research infrastructure.

Benefits

4 weeks' vacation

Hybrid-work program

Employer paid pension plan

On-campus tuition waiver for employees

Professional development funds

Qualifications

• Five years of experience within a medical or academic institution.
• Expertise in academic and medical research administration.
• Proven people leadership and adaptability to emerging trends.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate day-to-day research operations.
• Ensure research activities are compliant with institutional priorities.
• Support large-scale projects and community partnerships.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Research ethics and compliance

Project management

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Master’s degree in research administration or related field

Job description

Who We Are

Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.

In the School of Medicine, we are committed to shaping the future of healthcare through innovative education, groundbreaking research, and community engagement. As we embark on this journey to redefine medical education, we are seeking passionate individuals who are eager to contribute to our mission.

We envision a medical education system where students and residents learn as part of a team in primary care, community-level settings and patient‑centred environments. Our curriculum considers social, environmental and prevention contexts while seeking to advance reconciliation by embedding and equalizing Indigenous knowledge systems in our learning, research and practices. As we establish the School of Medicine in Surrey, B.C., we will foster our growing relationships with the local community, Fraser Health Authority, First Nations Health Authority, physicians and Indigenous partners who will help us meet the diverse health needs of the communities we serve. We seek to improve access to primary care throughout the province while resting on a solid foundation of high‑quality, accredited education and world‑class research efforts that keep us oriented toward measurable and socially accountable outcomes.

About the Role

Manager, Research Operations role is responsible for leading and coordinating the day‑to‑day research operations of the School of Medicine, ensuring research activities are efficient, compliant, and aligned with institutional and strategic priorities. The role provides operational leadership across the full research life cycle, including policy and procedure development, researcher and learner support, ethics and regulatory guidance, post‑award management, and partnership coordination. This role contributes to departmental goals by strengthening research infrastructure, improving administrative consistency, and supporting high‑quality, ethical, and impactful medical research. By aligning operational priorities with the school’s mission and the university’s strategic research plans, the role enables faculty and learners to focus on scholarship, increases competitiveness for external funding, and enhances collaboration with internal, community, and industry partners. Upcoming initiatives include implementing research management systems, supporting large‑scale projects, strengthening ethics and data governance, expanding community partnerships, organizing research events.

Qualifications

Master’s degree in research administration, Health Sciences, Health Policy or related discipline with five years of related experience within a medical or academic institution or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

• Strategic and collaborative leader with expertise in academic and medical research administration
• In‑depth knowledge of research ethics, regulatory compliance, and post‑award management
• Strong project management, analytical, and problem‑solving skills to manage complex, multi‑stakeholder initiatives
• Excellent communicator and relationship‑builder with faculty, learners, community partners, and funders
• Proven people leadership, adaptability to emerging research trends, and commitment to integrity, equity, and continuous improvement

What We Offer

At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work‑life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer continuing employees who belong in the Administrative & Professional Staff Association (APSA):

• 4 weeks’ vacation (prorated for the first year)*
• Hybrid‑work program for eligible positions
• Employer paid defined benefit pension plan
• On‑campus tuition waiver for employees and their immediate family members*
• Off‑campus tuition reimbursements and professional development funds*
• And more! (view our benefits brochure)

*Prorated for part‑time employees

Additional Information

Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.

SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.

We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact [e-mail].