Project Manager Visa Sponsorship Uk

Job Description

Location: University of Leeds
Salary: Competitive
Contract Type: Full-time, Fixed-term
Closing Date: [Insert Deadline]

Are you an experienced project manager with a proven track record of delivering complex research or innovation programmes? Are you ready to take a key operational leadership role in a major national initiative aimed at transforming the UK’s support landscape for research technicians in Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS)?

We are seeking a motivated and organised individual to manage the operational delivery of the £1.9 million UKRAS STEPS programme. In this role, you will work closely with the Programme Manager to ensure the successful implementation of a high-impact initiative that supports technician development, fosters collaboration, and promotes excellence across the UK robotics research community.

About the UKRAS STEPS Programme
UKRAS STEPS builds on the success of the UKRAS Network, which connects researchers in Robotics and Autonomous Systems across 37 UK universities. This new initiative aims to establish a national professional network for technicians, lab staff, and facility managers in RAS.

The programme’s mission is to promote technical excellence, career development, and collaboration, while creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for research technicians across the UK.

Key objectives include:

Enhancing technical knowledge and professional development for research technicians in RAS;

Building a supportive and collaborative environment through national and international partnerships;

Delivering a well-structured, inclusive, and sustainable programme aligned with ethical and environmental standards.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements.

What we’re looking for:

• Experience managing large-scale research, innovation, or technical programmes
• Strong organisational and leadership skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders across academia and industry
• Commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and professional development

What we offer in return:

• 26 days of annual leave, plus around 16 university closure days – totalling approximately 42 days per year
• Generous pension scheme with 14.5% employer contribution and life assurance
• Health and wellbeing benefits, including discounted gym membership at our state-of-the-art facility, The Edge
• Access to professional development and learning opportunities
• On-site childcare, retail discounts, travel schemes, and more

Visa Information:
This post may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route, though first-time applicants may need to meet specific salary thresholds. Academic and research-focused roles may also be eligible under the Global Talent visa route. Please refer to GOV.UK – Skilled Worker visa and GOV.UK – Global Talent visa for further information.

Enquiries:
To discuss the role or for further information, please contact:
Professor Robert Richardson
Tel: +44 (0)113 343 2156
Email: R.C.Richardson@leeds.ac.uk