Research Systems Manager(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Opportunity

The University of Reading is entering an important phase of digital transformation across its research environment. This role offers the chance to lead and support the rollout of key systems that will shape how research activity is managed, tracked, and supported across the institution.

As Research Systems Manager, you will play a central role in delivering and embedding two major platforms: a Current Research Information System (CRIS) and a research funding lifecycle system. You’ll help move these systems from implementation into day-to-day operational use, ensuring they are effective, user-friendly, and widely adopted.

Key Responsibilities

This is a hands-on role combining systems management, stakeholder engagement, and service delivery. You will:

Support the final stages of implementation for new research systems and tools
Configure system modules to meet organisational and user needs
Work closely with teams across research, library, and strategy functions
Promote system adoption through engagement with academic and professional staff
Design and deliver training sessions for users at different levels of experience
Oversee helpdesk support and ensure high-quality user service
Identify opportunities to improve processes and workflows linked to research systems
Help transition newly implemented systems into stable, business-as-usual operations

• Systems You’ll Work With
  Current Research Information System (CRIS)
  Research funding lifecycle management platform

These systems will support everything from grant applications and funding management to research outputs and reporting, making your role critical to the university’s research infrastructure.

About You

This role is well suited to someone with both technical understanding and strong interpersonal skills.

Essential Experience:

• Working with research systems such as CRIS or funding management platforms
  Supporting or leading system implementation projects
  Delivering user support services, such as helpdesks or training sessions

Key Skills:

• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
  Strong problem-solving and organisational skills
  Clear communication, with the ability to explain technical systems to non-technical users
  Collaborative approach to working with a wide range of stakeholders

Professional Development & Flexibility

The university encourages internal development, and this role may be available as a secondment opportunity for current staff. Flexible working arrangements, including part-time or job-share options, will be considered where possible.

Visa & Eligibility Guidance

If you require visa sponsorship, it is important to review eligibility criteria before applying. The following official resources may help:

• Skilled Worker visa guidance
  UK immigration points system
  Right to work checks
  Switching visa categories
  General UK visas and immigration overview

Please note that detailed visa discussions will only take place at interview stage.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

University of Reading is committed to fostering an inclusive working environment. The institution actively supports equality initiatives such as Athena SWAN and the Race Equality Charter, and promotes a culture where diversity is valued.

The university is also a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2), encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Contact Information

For informal enquiries about the role:

Anne-Marie van Dodeweerd
Director of Research Services

Why Apply?

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a large-scale digital transformation within a leading university. You’ll have the chance to shape how research systems are implemented and used, while working with a wide range of stakeholders across the institution.

If you enjoy combining technology, service improvement, and collaboration, this role offers both challenge and long-term impact.