Vacancy title
Head of Research Programmes Analysis, Development and Management
Closing date
20/03/2026, 16:00
Advertising basis
Permanent
Actual starting salary
£61,098
Salary range or pay band
Grade 7 £61,098 to £73,057
Allowances
No
Work pattern
Full time (applications are welcome from people who work part time, as part of a job share or who work full time)
Group
Economy, Energy and Transport
Directorate
Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales
Branch
Programmes Analysis, Development and Management
Location (s)
Cardiff, Pan Wales
Main office base
Cathays, Cardiff
Purpose of post
The Welsh Government Office for Science, led by the Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that government programmes, policies and decisions are informed by robust scientific evidence and strategic foresight.
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to lead on the design, analysis and delivery of strategic research and innovation programmes. This is a unique opportunity to work at the interface of science, policy and public impact.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead strategic partnerships with key research funders such as Medr (Commission for Tertiary Education and Research) and other national and international RD&I bodies.
- Advise on funding mechanisms, delivery structures and research translation, ensuring that science and technology investments deliver real-world benefits.
- Conduct performance analysis of Welsh Government, UKRI and European Commission-funded programmes to identify what works, what doesn’t, and how future programmes can be improved.
- Provide expert advice to the Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales on science and technology policy, evidence generation, and programme impact
Science is about more than discovery — it’s about impact. This role ensures that research programmes are not only well-designed but also deliver measurable outcomes that benefit society, the economy and the environment. You’ll help shape how Wales invests in science and innovation, ensuring maximum return on investment and long-term strategic value.
Science is about more than discovery — it’s about impact. This role ensures that research programmes are not only well-designed but also deliver measurable outcomes that benefit society, the economy and the environment. You’ll help shape how Wales invests in science and innovation, ensuring maximum return on investment and long-term strategic value.
Key tasks
Main Responsibilities