Research Programmes Manager - FTC

Research Programmes Manager FTC

We have established a number of high-profile strategic initiatives to help us advance our work towards a cure, such as the Drug Discovery Alliance and Brains for Dementia Research. We now have an exciting opportunity for a Research Programme Manager to support the first year of our newest initiative, the Dementia Frontiers Fund. Launched in partnership with Gates Ventures, this bold, ambitious global initiative is empowering researchers to tackle the most urgent and complex questions in dementia. Where required, the successful candidate will also support the ongoing delivery of our other major initiatives, working collaboratively across the organisation to maximise their impact both internally and externally.

This role sits within the Strategic Programmes team in the Research Directorate, an ambitious, supportive and friendly team that funds the best research to transform the lives of people affected by all forms of dementia. We re looking for someone with strong programme management experience, a good eye for detail and who is excited by the opportunities in the dementia research landscape.

This is a 12- month Fixed Term Contract.

Key Responsibilities:

Support the delivery of the Dementia Frontiers Fund in close collaboration with another Research Programme Manager:

Oversee the establishment of project teams, tracking progress against milestones and KPIs, managing risks and keeping partners updated

Ensure finances are effectively managed, working with the Research Funding and Finance teams

Build and maintain strong relationships with partners and stakeholders involved with the initiatives to maximise their success

Implement robust and proportionate review processes

Lead the preparation of papers and briefings for meetings

Collaborate across teams to deliver and enhance strategic initiatives:

Provide programme management support to the wider Strategic Programmes team on other strategic initiatives as required

Work closely with the Research Funding team to ensure review processes are proportionate and aligned with funding mechanisms

Support the implementation of strategic initiatives within the new Grant Management System, including the setup of grants and associated review processes

Work closely with the Research Involvement Manager to embed lived experience into programme delivery and review

Strengthen relationships within the dementia research community

Work with the Senior Research Manager and Partnerships Manager to identify and support strategic partnerships that complement programme goals, including providing programme information, sharing progress updates, and contributing to setup and ongoing engagement

Attend meetings and events to build relationships and promote our strategic programmes

Support the Research Leadership team to enhance ARUK s external profile through active participation in meetings and collaborations with key stakeholders

What we are looking for:

First degree (or equivalent) in relevant biomedical science.

Proven experience managing large programmes of work, preferably in the healthcare, research or charity sector.

Strong project management skills, with experience managing multiple priorities, overseeing budgets and identifying risks.

Ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholder groups and third-party suppliers and build strong, effective and productive relationships.

Experience defining programme requirements and using data and metrics to determine improvements.

Commitment to ARUK s vision, mission and values.

Good analytical skills demonstrated by a structured and methodical approach.

Excellent eye for detail with a focus on continuous improvement.

Strong communication skills both oral and written with the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences.

Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task, prioritise competing demands.

Demonstrated stakeholder management (internal & external), and problem-solving skills.

Ability to manage a varied workload and prioritise tasks, work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Ability to use own initiative, with a proactive and problem-solving attitude.

Willingness to travel, including occasional overnight travel.

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

Agile - As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals. This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD.

Salary: Circa £44,000 per annum, plus benefits

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 7th December 2025, with interviews being arranged once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.