Job title: Research Environment and Culture Officer

Department: Research and Knowledge Exchange

Contract Type: Fixed term until end of July 2027, full-time

Grade: 7

Location: Bloomsbury, London

Hours: 35

SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East. SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.

About The Role

The Research Environment and Culture Officer will play a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing SOAS's research environment, helping to foster a positive, inclusive and evidence-informed research culture across the institution. The postholder will lead the development of approaches to monitor, evaluate and demonstrate the impact of research environment activities, ensuring that researcher development and support are strategically aligned with institutional priorities and external commitments. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about creating meaningful change, strengthening the researcher experience and supporting a thriving research community.

As a collaborative and highly visible role, the post offers the chance to work across Colleges, Departments and Professional Services to identify effective practice, support local initiatives and contribute to institution-wide approaches that enhance research culture. Using qualitative and quantitative evidence relating to researcher development initiatives the post holder will contribute to key submissions such as the Vitae HR Excellence in Research Award and REF2029 Strategy, People and Research Environment statements.

You can find further information on the key criteria for the role in the Job Description and Person Specification, along with a full list of duties and responsibilities, which can be found on the SOAS website.

Informal queries about the role can be made to Tatiana Lima Faria tf17@soas.ac.uk

About The Department

SOAS is a global university in the heart of London’s vibrant university quarter, with a more diverse staff and student base than virtually any other in the UK. Our scholarship spans the arts, humanities and social sciences. Our expertise is deeply and uniquely rooted in the political, social, economic, historical and cultural dynamics of Africa, Asia and the Middle East and their diasporas, which collectively account for over three-quarters of the world’s population.

The Research and Knowledge Exchange Directorate manages the whole lifecycle of research and knowledge exchange activities at SOAS, from supporting researchers applying for funding to generating research impact and commercialising new knowledge. It is an exciting time to join the SOAS Research and Knowledge Exchange Directorate as we continue to expand and enhance our research, impact and knowledge exchange profile. You will play a key role in delivering the SOAS Vision and Strategy and contributing to the achievement of ambitious targets, including in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029.

You can find further information on the key criteria for the role in the Job Description and Person Specification, along with a full list of duties and responsibilities, which can be found on the SOAS website

What We Offer

We are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to enhance your well-being and work-life balance:

Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 5 closure days over Christmas and Easter) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future
Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
Health and Well-being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.

How To Apply

Please complete the online application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement.

Closing date: 16th September 2026

Interviews to be held: TBC

Use of AI

While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.

Further information

Please note that the application system does not currently have a save-and-return feature. To avoid losing any information, we strongly encourage you to complete and submit your application in one sitting. Make sure you have all necessary details ready before you begin.

Successful candidates will need to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK or have limited leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with SOAS, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.

We are not able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.

If you have any questions or require any assistance with regard to the application process, please contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS

For information on how and why SOAS processes personal data about its job applicants, please read our Job Applicant Notice.

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Research Environment and Culture Officer