Head of University Sector Insight Job in UK 2026

Research England is seeking a Head of University Sector Insight to join its Insight and Engagement Team on a six-month fixed-term contract. The successful candidate will lead the analysis of the health of England’s higher education research and innovation system, transforming complex quantitative and qualitative evidence into strategic insights that inform policy development and government decision-making.

The role involves working closely with senior leadership, government departments, universities, and sector partners to support evidence-based policy that strengthens research, innovation, and knowledge exchange across England.

About the Hiring Firm

Research England is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), one of Europe’s largest research organizations. It supports England’s higher education providers by funding research and knowledge exchange while promoting innovation, economic growth, and societal impact. Research England works closely with universities, government, and sector partners to strengthen the UK’s global leadership in research, innovation, and higher education through evidence-based policy and strategic investment.

Job Duties

• Develop and maintain expert knowledge of higher education, research, innovation, and fiscal policy affecting English universities.
• Lead the development of innovative approaches for measuring and monitoring the health of the research and innovation system.
• Interpret complex quantitative and qualitative evidence and transform findings into actionable insights for diverse audiences.
• Lead policy development relating to assessing and monitoring the health of the university sector.
• Support senior leadership in developing evidence-based policy recommendations.
• Present research findings and policy analysis to external stakeholders and sector bodies.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with universities, government agencies, and policy organizations.
• Provide evidence-based briefings and advice to government departments and senior UKRI leadership.
• Act as the primary contact for university sector queries relating to sector health and policy.
• Line manage Policy Advisors and Senior Policy Advisors.
• Assess and present complex datasets to support policy development and strategic decision-making.
• Contribute to new data initiatives, research evaluation, funding policy development, and internal project management.
• Prepare reports, committee papers, and strategic documentation for Research England leadership.

Job Requirements

• Excellent analytical skills with experience working across quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method datasets.
• Strong ability to interpret complex evidence and communicate insights to a wide range of audiences.
• Comprehensive understanding of the higher education research, innovation, and knowledge exchange landscape in England.
• Knowledge of university governance, finance, operations, and the wider political and policy environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience working with universities, government bodies, and policy stakeholders.
• Ability to identify policy solutions and provide authoritative advice on research and innovation issues.
• Strong project management and people management experience.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in data architecture principles and understanding of economic theory are desirable.

#339966;">#339966;" href="https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/head-of-university-sector-insight-at-research-england-4433179619/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This is an excellent opportunity for experienced higher education policy and research professionals to contribute to the future of England’s research and innovation landscape. The role offers a competitive annual salary, Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, an excellent pension scheme, and the opportunity to influence national policy while working within one of Europe’s leading research organizations.

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