Program Senior Specialist Research Engagement

Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research

Based in the Research & Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D Materials (RIC2D), the Senior Specialist Research Engagement is responsible for supporting the grant life cycle of projects initiated and awarded by RIC2D. This can cover the launch of new programs and the corresponding evaluation process, as well as implementing initiatives designed to identify and capture key research metrics and KPIs arising from funded projects. In addition, the post holder is also responsible for facilitating engagement activities underpinning the delivery of the Center's key strategic goals focusing on Knowledge Transfer, Human Capital Development, Societal & Economic Impact, and partnerships.

Operational Responsibilities

1. Support the submission and validation process for new research and/or development programs, ensuring that proposals are compliant, complete, and timely.
2. Work with the Program Manager to ensure the timely completion of any internal and external grant report review process, liaising with the relevant reviewers and technical experts as appropriate.
3. Support the Program Manager as needed in relation to the coordination, tracking and review of project reporting deliverables and grant performance management.
4. Support strategic data capture arising from Program activities through the development and implementation of appropriate monitoring, reporting and evaluation processes & tools.
5. Translate data and KPI delivery into various marketing tools including management & annual reports, press & web content tailored to various stakeholders and audiences.
6. Core contact point for designated RIC2D stakeholders such as, but not limited to, Theme Leads, facilitating their engagement with RIC2D and ensuring exchange, awareness and capture of relevant outputs generated by the wider 2D materials community at KU.
7. Implementation of programs to widen participation with RIC2D and enhance researcher experience. Such initiatives include an Internship program, Innovation & Scientific seminar series, postdoc development aligning with Center's goals and KPIs.
8. Support supplier registration process in relation to Program requirements.
9. Oversee maintenance of Programs contact database and actively seek to increase contacts to support Program needs.
10. Coordinate with the Program team as appropriate to monitor and respond to Program enquiries, providing support for applicants and awardees, issuing status updates and reporting reminders in accordance with the Program specifications.
11. Support the wider Program team as needed including but not limited to coordination of annual Program reports for senior management, periodic review meetings of funded projects, developing content for RIC2D's annual summit.
12. Interface with the wider RIC2D team including Operations, Lab, Commercialization team as appropriate to support and promote Center activity as necessary.
13. Work with wider functions of the University as necessary to facilitate the accomplishment of tasks and responsibilities as needed including the Office of Research Services, Student Services, Knowledge Innovation Center, and Communications teams etc.
14. Adhere to the University's information security and confidentiality policies and procedures, and report breaches or other security risks accordingly.
15. Keep up to date with policy changes to ensure processes adhere to all current policies.
16. Perform other tasks, as assigned by the Program Manager, to support the wider activities of the Research and Innovation Centre as necessary.

Desired Candidate Profile

Required Qualifications

At least Bachelor’s degree in related field such as Science and Engineering, Project/Business administration or relevant experience within a research/funding environment such as a research funding agency, foundation or university internal funding function.

Expats:
A minimum of 7-9 years of relevant experience.
UAE Nationals:
A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience.

Knowledge of research services operations applications submissions, evaluations, and/or award management preferable.
Demonstrable experience of research metrics and impact reporting.
Familiarity of engagement activities to support university-based research.
Experience of sourcing and collating material for management reports preferable.
Experience of data management and confidentiality protocols preferred.
Awareness of technology transfer considerations an advantage.
Strong IT skills.

Company Industry

• Education
• Training
• Teaching

Department / Functional Area

• Administration