Full job descriptionHead of Research and DevelopmentThe closing date is 01 October 2026

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Job summaryWe are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Research and Development to be based in either our Middlesbrough or York office.
The postholder will have significant experience in health research management to provide strategic and operational leadership for research across Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust. This role will form part of the R&D leadership team to lead the Trust’s research agenda, oversee research governance and performance, develop collaborative partnerships with university and external stakeholders, and drive growth in high-quality research that improves outcomes for people using mental health and learning disability services. The postholder will play a pivotal role in delivering the Trust’s long-term research ambitions, in collaboration with key University partnerships and other networks.
This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route. However, sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements, therefore, we recommend that you assess your eligibility before applying for this position. Visit
Main duties of the jobThe Head of Research and Development will lead the Trust’s Research and Development team, ensuring the safe, effective and compliant delivery of research studies and key trials. Key responsibilities include developing research strategy, strengthening research capacity and capability, securing external funding, overseeing research governance and regulatory compliance, managing research budgets and contracts, supporting large-scale research programmes, and building productive relationships with NHS, academic, industry, NIHR and other partners. The role also provides assurance to Trust leadership on research performance and quality, while championing innovation, knowledge mobilisation and the implementation of research into practice.
About usWe are the Mental Health & Learning Disability NHS Trust for County Durham and Darlington, Teesside, North Yorkshire, York and Selby.
From education and prevention, to crisis and specialist care --our talented and compassionate teams work in partnership with our patients, communities and partners to help the people of our region feel safe, understood, believed in and cared for.
We nurture the recovery journey of anyone in need of our help. In Our Trust, everyone has a say in how they are supported and treated because we listen to every person in our care until they feel understood. Our patients, their families and carers work together with us towards better mental health.
We’re committed to new thinking that improves the wellbeing of our region. We connect with our communities and partners to get mental health care right, in areas that really need it.
DetailsDate posted17 September 2026
Pay schemeAgenda for change
BandBand 8b
Salary£66,582 to £77,368 a year per annum
ContractPermanent
Working patternFull-time
Reference number346-CORP-126-26
Job locationsFlatts Lane Centre, Middlesbrough or Foss Park Hospital, York
Middlesbrough or York
TS6 0SZ
United Kingdom
Job descriptionJob responsibilitiesPlease see attached the Head of Research job description for detailed responsibilities, organisational chart and person specification.
This job advert may close early if a high volume of applications have been received. If interested, please apply for this post as soon as possible.

Job description
Job responsibilitiesPlease see attached the Head of Research job description for detailed responsibilities, organisational chart and person specification.
This job advert may close early if a high volume of applications have been received. If interested, please apply for this post as soon as possible.
Person SpecificationQualificationsEssential*Health related degree or equivalent qualification
*Possession of a post graduate management /research qualification or demonstrable equivalent experience.
*Evidence of continuing professional and personal development.
KnowledgeEssential*Knowledge and understanding of the key regulations for clinical research, including: Medicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) Regulations 2004 and the 2025 amendments UK Policy Framework for Health and Social Care Research.
*Knowledge of research based policies and procedures.
Knowledge/Skills/ExperienceEssential*Have a proven track record of senior management and leadership in an operational healthcare environment, with responsibility for management of large teams and budgets
*Have a proven track record in developing processes and procedures to deliver efficiencies across a complex operational structure
*Have proven ability to manage by leadership and negotiation in a large and/or complex organisation
*Have proven experience in the management of change
*Have worked in research delivery and support at an operational level
*Demonstrate sound understanding and knowledge of the requirements of staff in the conduct and support of clinical research
*Demonstrate sound understanding of business management, including financial, within a healthcare setting related to research and innovation
*A detailed working knowledge of the practical arrangements needed to deliver large scale externally funded research programmes
*High quality analytical skills, with the ability to analyse and present complex data and interpret its implications
*High quality interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish constructive relationships with individuals at all levels including that of Board and Executive, and the ability to use negotiation and coaching approaches where needed
*Able to concentrate for prolonged periods whilst maintaining excellent attention to detail
*Able to analyse and respond effectively to complex issues, drawing upon available resources
Desirable*Postgraduate research qualification at masters or PhD level
*Accreditation in management techniques to improve care e.g. quality improvement or coaching
*A proven track record of brokering relationships at a range of levels across complex institutional settings
Person Specification
QualificationsEssential*Health related degree or equivalent qualification
*Possession of a post graduate management /research qualification or...