Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise Fellow (PERI) CC)

## Opportunity Review: Contributing to the Future of Academic-Policy Engagement This review provides an in-depth look at an exciting opportunity within the Universities Policy Engagement Network (UPEN), focusing on key advantages and considerations for potential candidates.

The Universities Policy Engagement Network (UPEN) is a dynamic and growing collective of UK higher education institutions dedicated to fostering impactful collaborations between academia and policy-making. Established in 2018, UPEN has rapidly expanded its reach, now encompassing over 110 universities. This role is pivotal to UPEN's ambitious project, funded by Research England and the ESRC, aimed at developing a robust understanding and framework for academic-policy engagement infrastructure and capabilities across the UK.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Pioneering Research: This position offers a unique chance to be at the forefront of understanding and shaping the "Public Policy Knowledge Brokerage ecosystem." You will contribute directly to the development and trial of the Policy Engagement Readiness Index (PERI), a groundbreaking initiative.
• High-Impact Collaboration: You will work closely with leading researchers in public policy and the Head of Public Policy at Southampton, gaining invaluable experience and mentorship. The opportunity to co-author publications for high-impact journals is a significant benefit, particularly for Early Career Researchers (ECRs) looking to build their publication record or professional service staff seeking to expand their academic outputs.
• Cross-Institutional Experience: The role involves identifying and analyzing a wide range of knowledge brokerage activities across domestic and international higher education institutions. This provides exposure to diverse approaches and best practices within the sector.
• Skill Development: You will develop expertise in devising and conducting both qualitative and quantitative research methods to capture stakeholder perceptions and measure the efficacy of knowledge brokerage activities. The creation of visual and narrative summary devices to represent these measures will also hone your communication and data visualization skills.
• Networking Opportunities: Collaboration with Post Doc Research Assistants at Durham, an external consultant, and a delivery team at UCL will provide extensive networking opportunities within the academic and policy engagement spheres.
• Career Enhancement: This role is ideally suited for individuals seeking to advance their careers in higher education research, policy impact, knowledge exchange, or professional service roles that bridge academia and the wider world. The experience gained is highly transferable and valuable for future career progression.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Fixed-Term Contract: The position is a fixed-term contract for 18 months. Candidates should consider their career trajectory and how this role fits into their long-term professional goals.
• Research Intensity: The role involves significant research activities, including data collection, analysis, and dissemination. A strong aptitude for research and a keen interest in the academic-policy interface are essential.
• Collaborative Environment: While offering excellent collaborative opportunities, the role requires effective teamwork and communication with colleagues across multiple institutions and disciplines.
• Contribution to a Growing Network: UPEN is a voluntary network funded by donations, with recent significant funding from Research England and ESRC. Candidates should appreciate the entrepreneurial and collaborative spirit that underpins such initiatives.
• Location (University of Southampton): While the project has a broad scope, the primary base for collaboration with the Head of Public Policy is at the University of Southampton. Candidates should factor in potential relocation or regular travel if not already based in the vicinity. Information about staff benefits and the university environment is available for review.

This role represents a compelling opportunity for motivated individuals to make a tangible contribution to the advancement of academic-policy engagement in the UK. It offers a rich learning environment, significant professional development potential, and the chance to be part of a vital network shaping future policy landscapes.