Research Co-operative Administrator

Opportunity Review: Research Co-operative Administrator at the University of Derby

The University of Derby is a forward-thinking institution dedicated to making a positive impact through its pioneering research, exceptional teaching, and commitment to sustainability. Recognised with a Gold award in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, the University boasts outstanding facilities and a strong reputation for student experience and outcomes. This financially robust and ambitious organisation fosters an inclusive culture that prioritises staff wellbeing, offering ample opportunities for skill enhancement and career development.

Within this vibrant academic environment, the College of Science and Engineering plays a crucial role in advancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. With significant investments in cutting-edge technologies and an active applied research agenda, the College is at the forefront of innovation, addressing critical areas like digitisation and decarbonisation.

About the Role: Shaping the Future of Sound

This unique opportunity is with the Electro-Acoustics Research Lab (EARLab), a world-leading research cluster focused on ensuring an equitable and excellent listening experience for all. EARLab's mission of "the democracy of sound" is driven by analysis and optimisation of sound reproduction and reinforcement. A key initiative is the HELA Certification (Healthy Ears, Limited Annoyance), a groundbreaking program designed to promote safe listening practices at live events through industry-ready training and certification. This role offers a chance to be integral to the operational success of this innovative co-operative.

As the Research Co-operative Administrator, you will be the backbone of the HELA Research Co-op, ensuring its smooth day-to-day running. Your responsibilities will be diverse and engaging, encompassing:

• Managing and updating HELA’s social media channels, website, and e-newsletter.
• Tracking engagement metrics to inform strategy.
• Serving as the primary point of contact for website enquiries, coordinating responses with academic and technical teams.
• Maintaining a contact log for partners and committees.
• Planning and coordinating logistics for various events, including online seminars, research workshops, networking events, and partner visits (including international visitor arrangements).
• Assisting with trade-show organisation.
• Supporting financial processes such as purchase orders and expense claims.
• Compiling data for project reporting.

This is a part-time (22.2 hours per week) fixed-term, grant-funded role, ideal for someone seeking to immerse themselves in a dynamic research environment and contribute to impactful collaborations between academia and industry. Please note that some UK travel and occasional evening or weekend work may be required.

Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Impactful Work: Contribute to a research lab at the cutting edge of electro-acoustics and sound reinforcement, with a mission focused on accessibility and safety.
• Skill Development: Gain valuable experience in project administration, event management (both virtual and in-person), digital content management, stakeholder engagement, and financial support within a research context.
• Dynamic Environment: Work within a supportive academic setting that fosters innovation and collaboration. The University's commitment to staff development means you'll have opportunities to enhance your skills and build a rewarding career.
• Industry Exposure: Engage with a broad range of partners, including academics, healthcare professionals, and industry experts, gaining insights into real-world applications of research.
• Flexible Working: The University offers a flexible working environment, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Enjoy a generous annual leave entitlement, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, and a suite of wellbeing benefits.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Role Type: This is a part-time (22.2 hours per week) and a fixed-term position, funded by a grant. Candidates should be aware of the temporary nature of the role.
• Proactive & Organised: The role requires a highly proactive, well-organised individual with excellent communication and coordination skills.
• Experience: Prior administrative experience in a project, research, higher education, or SME environment is essential. Experience with social media scheduling and basic web content updates is also required.
• Event Management: Proficiency in planning and delivering both virtual and in-person events is crucial.
• Technical Skills: You will need excellent written communication, sound judgment, strong attention to detail, and proficiency in Microsoft 365, Teams, SharePoint, and basic design tools like Canva.
• Work Location & Travel: The discipline area is located in the University’s STEM annex in Markeaton Street. Be prepared for potential UK travel and occasional evening/weekend work to support events.
• Right to Work: The University is unable to sponsor international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this specific role. Candidates must possess an alternative right to work in the UK.
• Salary: The salary is in the range of £26,981 to £28,213 per annum (pro rata). There is potential for progression for exceptional performers up to £32,445 per annum (pro rata).

This is an excellent opportunity for an aspiring administrator to contribute to a unique and impactful research initiative within a supportive and ambitious university. If you are detail-oriented, proactive, and eager to support ground-breaking work in the field of electro-acoustics, we encourage you to explore this role further.