Research and Knowledge Exchange Systems and Data Support Officer

The Research, Innovation and Enterprise Support Office (RIES) delivers an integrated service across the full research and knowledge exchange (RKE) funding lifecycle, from bid development and submission through to award set up and post award support. The team provides expert advice, guidance and operational assistance across the University's RKE portfolio, ensuring compliance with major funders and government agencies while enabling high quality research and knowledge exchange activity that advances the University's strategic ambitions. The RIES Office is co located with the Graduate School, which supports and develops the University's vibrant postgraduate and researcher community. Both teams are overseen by the Vice Principal (Research & Innovation) and work from a dedicated facility at the heart of campus. Together, the RIES Office and Graduate School strengthen the University's research culture and environment, supporting delivery of the Research and Knowledge Exchange Strategy R LINCS (https://www.abertay.ac.uk/research-overview/research-strategy-and-structure/) and driving forward our RKE ambitions., Reporting to the Vice Principal (Research & Innovation) and working closely with the Scholarly Publications and Research Information Specialist, you will you will play a key role in enabling the University's ambition to deliver an outstanding RKE support service. You will lead on the development, procurement, implementation, integration and day to day operation of business critical RKE systems, ensuring they are robust, accessible, and fit for purpose to support both operational delivery and strategic priorities. You will be responsible for the stewardship, analysis and effective use of RKE data. You will produce accurate, insightful and timely management information and reports for the RKE Leadership Team, directly informing strategy development, service enhancement and compliance activity. You will support the operational delivery of major research and knowledge exchange data submissions (including REF, KEIF and HE BCIS), with end to end responsibility for data integrity, quality assurance, analysis and presentation. This will include establishing and maintaining research intelligence databases and dashboards, and working closely with Faculties and Professional Support Services to ensure consistent, reliable and meaningful data collection and reporting. The postholder will be confident in, or able to rapidly develop, expertise in RKE information systems such as PURE, Wellspring Evolve and the REF Submission System. You will provide system administration, troubleshooting, routine and ad hoc data entry, reporting and testing, and will take a leading role in ensuring system readiness for REF2029 and other statutory returns.

Working closely with the REF Team, you will provide operational leadership on research systems and RKE data governance, with a particular focus on:

• Administration and development of business critical RKE systems (including PURE and related platforms)
• REF2029 data operational delivery, including system configuration, testing, data preparation and submission
• Research governance, integrity and compliance (including Funder Open Access and Research Data Management)
• High quality reporting and analysis for RKE leadership, committees and statutory bodies
• Training, guidance and user support for academic and professional services staff.

You will exercise a high degree of independent responsibility and regularly manage complex issues requiring influence and collaboration across the University and with external stakeholders. Strong organisational, analytical and interpersonal skills will be essential to prioritise work effectively, meet demanding deadlines, and resolve problems with a high level of attention to detail. The role will also lead on the ongoing maintenance and development of research support systems, including (but not limited to) PURE, costing and IP management systems. As system landscapes evolve, you will ensure seamless operation, appropriate integration with internal and external platforms, and alignment with emerging institutional and sector requirements. You will contribute to the configuration and implementation of new systems and modules, working closely with key stakeholders to support adoption and continuous improvement. This will include developing and delivering effective training and supporting process change to ensure systems and the services they underpin deliver maximum value to the University's research and knowledge exchange mission.

The role requires a data savvy, analytically strong professional with deep experience in research information systems, exceptional communication and organisational skills, and the ability to lead, problem solve, and work proactively with accuracy and discretion. It calls for someone confident in managing complex data, systems, and people while delivering high quality insights and outputs in a university research environment.

Abertay is a modern university with a global outlook, rooted in its local and national communities. We have made our mark with high quality, well-directed teaching and research, and a stimulating and enriching experience for our students.