The closing date is 28th Jun 2026
/*generated inline style */
Job summary
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is entering an important new phase in the development of its research infrastructure. We are seeking an outstanding R&D Manager to play a key leadership role within our growing Department of Clinical Research.
This is a rare opportunity to help shape how research is delivered across the Trust. You will support highquality, innovative research that improves patient outcomes, advances clinical knowledge, and strengthens Somerset's reputation for research excellence at regional and national level.
As R&D Manager, you will provide senior operational leadership across a diverse research portfolio. This includes hosted and Trustsponsored studies, commercial and noncommercial research, investigatorled projects, and increasingly complex interventional trials. Working closely with the Head of Research, senior clinicians, executive colleagues, investigators, and external partners, you will lead the operational delivery, governance, and continuous improvement of the Trust's research function.
This role is ideal for an experienced research leader who thrives in complexity, values high standards, and is motivated by the opportunity to influence research delivery at organisational level.
/*generated inline style */
Main duties, tasks & skills required
The R&D Manager plays a pivotal leadership role in shaping and delivering the Trust's clinical research ambitions. This is an exciting opportunity to lead the operational management, performance, governance, and ongoing development of a dynamic Department of Clinical Research. You will provide strategic oversight of both hosted and Trust-sponsored research, ensuring the right systems, workforce, governance, and infrastructure are in place to deliver high-quality research that is safe, compliant, and sustainable.
You'll drive the development of efficient, responsive processes that enable the timely and effective setup of research studies, meeting national performance standards. Working in close partnership with the Senior Research Leadership Team, you will help deliver the Trust's strategic research priorities while leading innovative service improvement initiatives that enhance research delivery and impact.
This role offers the opportunity to build strong partnerships across the research landscape, working collaboratively with NIHR Research Delivery Network colleagues, the Research Support Service, partner organisation R&D teams, Primary Care colleagues, and Somerset ICB partners. Together, you will help maximise opportunities and create meaningful benefits for patients and research participants.
/*generated inline style */
About us
At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:
Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential
Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.
We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London.
The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.
Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.
/*generated inline style */
Job description
Please see attached Job Description & Person Specification for further details of duties and responsibilities.
/*generated inline style */
Person specification
/*generated inline style */
Qualifications
/*generated inline style */
Essential
First Degree plus postgraduate specialist training / management qualification or equivalent experience.
Evidence of continuing professional development
Specialist knowledge of research management and governance standards gained through practical experience
Knowledge of national systems and structures for the approval, management and monitoring of clinical research in the NHS
Clear understanding of NHS R&D policy and strategy
/*generated inline style */
Experience
/*generated inline style */
Essential
Practical experience of project management and the management of change
Experience of leading and managing a team, including line managing individuals within the team
Experience of policy development, implementation and monitoring
Experience and evidence of preparing reports and financial tables
Experience of preparing and delivering presentations at senior level
Experience of developing and delivering action plans that are realistic and relevant
/*generated inline style */
Desirable
Extensive experience and competency in using computer packages
Experience of successful financial management
Experience of working within Trust-sponsored research, including CTIMPs and/or investigator-led studies
Experience of working with research business intelligence, digital platforms, or data-enabled research infrastructure
/*generated inline style */
Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants.
/*generated inline style */
For help with your application, contact:
Marjia Monsur
[email protected]
07973720272
/*generated inline style */
Pay scheme
Agenda for Change
/*generated inline style */
Band
Band 8a
/*generated inline style */
Salary
/*generated inline style */
£57528.00 to £64750.00 Yearly
/*generated inline style */
Contract
Permanent
/*generated inline style */
Working pattern
Full-Time
/*generated inline style */
Reference number
/*generated inline style */
Job locations
Musgrove Park Hospital
Musgrove Road
Taunton
Somerset
TA1 5DA
/*generated inline style */
