Policy and Strategic Projects Consultant - Internal Secondment Opportunity
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Postdoc Academy at a critical moment, as we embark on a new programme of strategic projects to deliver policy change that will positively impact the professional development and career progression of the University's large, vibrant postdoc community. We are in the final stages of seeking approval for our priority areas of work over the next few years. The current proposals include:
- Consolidate and grow the structures for postdocs to participate in University and departmental decision-making, and ensure that postdocs are able to advocate for changes that will benefit the community
- Review and update the Career Development Review process and guidance, promote awareness amongst postdocs and their managers, with the ambition that all postdocs receive a supportive Career Development Review on an annual basis
- Enhance understanding amongst the postdoc community of their entitlement to 10 days professional development pro rata per year, and improve uptake of relevant opportunities
- Progress work to create fair, transparent, and equitable promotion and reward pathways for all postdocs during their time at Cambridge, and support postdocs to apply
The Policy and Strategic Projects Consultant will make a vital contribution by leading the scoping, consultation, and formulation of key proposals that can be submitted to the University's governance committees. The precise portfolio of work to be undertaken will be confirmed on appointment
We are looking for someone with experience of delivering strategic projects that are sensitive to the particulars of a research environment and have strong buy-in from diverse stakeholders at a range of levels. You will be independent, self-starting, and confident at managing projects.
The position is for a maximum of two years; it is funded by redeploying underspend from past programmes. We do not expect there to be additional funds to extend the duration of the post, which is why we are offering it as an internal secondment, i.e. in the hope that we can avoid creating a fixed-term contract where there is no prospect of open-ended employment.
The Postdoc Academy is widely recognised as a sector leader in providing support and guidance to postdocs and research staff. Come and join our friendly, dynamic team, and help us in our mission to enable postdocs to realise their potential, wherever their research, innovation, and creativity will take them.
We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements. The Postdoc Academy participates in the University's hybrid working policy.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
How to apply
You are invited to contact the Head of the Postdoc Academy, Steve Joy (sj232@cam.ac.uk), to discuss the post before applying. This will be an informal opportunity to find out whether the role is the right fit for you; it will not be treated as part of the application process.
Please submit a CV and a short statement (no more than 1 page) outlining your interest in the position.
Applications will close at 23:59 on Wednesday 23 October 2024.
Shortlisting will take place on Friday, 25 October 2024.
Interviews will take place on the morning and early afternoon of Wednesday, 30 October 2024.
The post is offered to internal candidates only on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.
Please quote reference AI42720 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.