Specialist Policy Officer (Faculty of Medicine) TW)

This role presents a compelling opportunity to join a dynamic, creative, and agile team at the forefront of policy impact within a prestigious Russell Group university. The core mission is to amplify the public policy relevance of research conducted at the University of Southampton. This involves fostering robust connections between academics and policymakers, enabling mutually beneficial dialogue that addresses critical societal challenges.

The scope of this work is extensive, spanning all faculties and disciplines across the university and engaging with a wide spectrum of policy actors, from local government to international bodies like the United Nations.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Significant Impact and Influence: You'll be instrumental in translating groundbreaking academic research into tangible policy solutions, directly contributing to positive societal change. This role offers the chance to shape public discourse and influence decision-making at various levels.
• Exposure to Diverse Disciplines: The position demands adaptability and the ability to engage with a broad range of subject areas, particularly within the globally renowned Faculty of Medicine. This offers unparalleled learning opportunities and broadens your understanding of cutting-edge research.
• Direct Engagement with Senior Stakeholders: You will have the chance to influence senior decision-makers within government and engage with parliamentarians, honing your skills in advocacy and stakeholder management.
• Career Development in Public Affairs: This role is ideally suited for individuals seeking to advance their careers in public affairs, particularly those with experience in the third sector, local or national government, or parliamentary support roles (e.g., civil servants, MP staffers, POST or Select Committee support staff).
• Supportive and Flexible Environment: The team operates with a hybrid model, offering flexibility. The university also strongly encourages applications from under-represented groups and actively supports flexible working arrangements, including job shares.
• Generous Benefits: The position offers a pro rata holiday allocation of 30 days plus 14 university closure/public holidays, along with pension auto-enrolment into the Universities Superannuation Scheme.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Part-Time and Fixed-Term Nature: This is a part-time (21 hours per week) role offered on a fixed-term basis until 31st July 2026, with the potential for extension subject to funding. Candidates should be comfortable with this structure and the inherent project-based nature of the role.
• Campus Presence: As a hybrid team, there is an expectation for part-time team members to be on campus at least one day a week, requiring a degree of logistical planning.
• Breadth of Subject Matter: While an advantage, the need to move between a broad range of subject areas requires strong research, analytical, and communication skills to quickly grasp and convey complex information effectively.
• Policy Landscape Knowledge: A foundational understanding of the UK policy landscape and the "impact agenda" in higher education will be beneficial. Familiarity with cancer sciences, developmental sciences, primary care, and health care sciences will be particularly advantageous.
• Influence and Persuasion: Success in this role hinges on the ability to build relationships, communicate persuasively, and influence senior decision-makers. A track record in stakeholder engagement is highly desirable.

This is an exciting chance to contribute meaningfully to public policy while developing your expertise in a vibrant academic environment. If you are passionate about research impact and possess strong stakeholder engagement skills, this role offers a rewarding path for your career.