Location: London, England, United Kingdom
Working Pattern: Full-time
Salary: £67,341 – £75,192
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Type: On-site
Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship: Available
Closing Date: 20-Apr-2025
About Us
The Institute of Prion Diseases at UCL is one of the world’s leading research centres focused on prions and their connection to neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. With a multidisciplinary approach, the Institute integrates structural biology, genetics, cellular and animal models, and clinical research, aiming to expand understanding of protein misfolding and aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases.
The Institute is backed by a significant £30 million joint investment from the MRC and UCL, which has provided a state-of-the-art facility in central London for furthering groundbreaking research. Led by Professor John Collinge FRS, the Institute employs approximately 90 staff members working across two sites, funded by a mix of MRC core funding, UCL funding, and external grants.
About the Role
The Institute Manager will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the Institute of Prion Diseases, supporting academic and research staff while ensuring the delivery of excellent service across all operational areas. Reporting directly to the Institute Director, this key leadership position will have close collaboration with the Faculty of Brain Sciences Operations Director and various UCL Central Professional Services teams, including Finance, HR, and Estates.
As Institute Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing essential operations, including finance management, IT, HR services, scientific support services (e.g., Biological and Histology Services), and Health & Safety. Additionally, you will manage laboratory services, tissue management, and the Institute’s buildings and space. This role requires a high level of coordination and communication to ensure the optimal performance of these departments, enabling researchers to carry out their work efficiently and effectively.
The Institute Manager will also play a key role in the Institute’s strategic planning, supporting the long-term goals of research excellence, funding, and operational efficiency.
This position meets the eligibility requirements for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship, allowing UCL to welcome international applicants who require visa assistance to join this prestigious institution.
Key Responsibilities
In your role as Institute Manager, you will be responsible for:
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Managing operations across finance, IT, HR, and scientific support services, including overseeing Biological and Histology Services, Health & Safety, and Tissue Management.
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Ensuring the effective running of the Institute, including managing laboratory services, buildings, and space management to meet the needs of researchers and staff.
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Coordinating with various UCL departments (Finance, HR, Estates) to ensure seamless service delivery and resolution of operational challenges.
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Supporting the Institute Director with strategic planning and decision-making, providing insights on operational efficiency and areas for improvement.
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Developing and maintaining strong working relationships with staff at all levels, ensuring that all operational services are aligned with research goals and contribute to the Institute’s mission of advancing neurodegenerative disease research.
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Overseeing the administration of grants and external funding, ensuring compliance with UCL’s policies and supporting research funding strategies.
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Managing space utilization to ensure that research teams have the facilities they need to carry out their work and collaborate effectively.
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Providing leadership to the Institute’s support teams, fostering a positive work culture and ensuring that all team members have the tools and resources necessary to succeed.
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Ensuring the Institute’s compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements and health and safety standards.
Essential Qualifications & Experience
To be considered for the Institute Manager role, candidates should have the following qualifications and experience:
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Extensive experience in operations management, ideally in an academic or research environment, with a focus on delivering high-quality support services.
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Proven experience in managing finance, HR, IT, and scientific services, with a strong understanding of the operational needs of a research institution.
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A strong track record of strategic planning and leadership in a multidisciplinary environment, with the ability to manage complex projects and teams.
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Experience in research administration, including grant management and ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.
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Knowledge of health and safety regulations within a research setting, and the ability to ensure compliance across the Institute.
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Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external stakeholders.
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Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to anticipate and address challenges proactively.
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An acceptable DBS check is required for this role.
What We Offer
Joining the Institute of Prion Diseases at UCL comes with numerous benefits and opportunities, including:
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Competitive salary range of £67,341 – £75,192, commensurate with experience.
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Access to Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship, enabling international candidates to live and work in the UK.
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41 days of holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 6 closure days).
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An additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme for added flexibility.
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A defined benefit career average revalued earnings (CARE) pension scheme, ensuring long-term financial security.
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Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan for convenient commuting.
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Immigration loan and relocation scheme available for eligible candidates.
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Access to UCL campus on-site nursery and on-site gym for work-life balance.
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Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay, supporting family needs.
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Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for personal and professional support.
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Discounted medical insurance for staff well-being.
Visit UCL Rewards and Benefits to learn more about the full range of staff benefits.
Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
As a globally recognized institution, UCL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment that mirrors the global talent pool. We actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including individuals from Black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women for senior roles.
We hold an Athena SWAN Bronze Award in recognition of our ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality in the workplace.
Application Process
If you’re excited about the opportunity to join one of the leading research institutions in the world and have the expertise to manage a high-performing team supporting ground-breaking research, we encourage you to apply.
For further details on the responsibilities, essential criteria, and how to apply, please refer to the full job description and person specification attached to this job listing.
Apply Here
If you have any questions or require adjustments to the application process, please contact:
Lea Raynor, Recruitment Manager at l.raynor@ucl.ac.uk
or Amali De Silva, HR Manager at AmaliDeSilva@prion.ucl.ac.uk
Take the next step in your career by joining UCL and helping lead an Institute at the forefront of research in neurodegenerative diseases. Apply by 20-Apr-2025 and make a lasting impact in the world of science and healthcare.
