Global progressive policing
Job advert:

Senior Research Fellow/Acting Director – Serious and Organised Crime and Policing

The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) is one of the world’s leading research think-tanks in the fields of defence and security. RUSI is seeking to recruit a Senior Research Fellow/Acting Director within its programme on serious and organised crime and policing.

The successful candidate will take a leading role as a permanent Senior Research Fellow in managing and delivering current and developing new research projects on a range of topics covered in the programme, including serious and organised crime, policing and intelligence – in the UK and internationally. In addition, from November 2019, for a limited term of 6–12 months, the successful candidate will provide maternity cover for the existing Director of the programme, providing overall programme and financial management, leading business development, and managing the 3–4 other research staff within the programme.

The Senior Research Fellow/Acting Director role offers an exceptional opportunity for a leading professional with expertise, experience and a strong record of achievement working on serious and organised crime and policing, whether in government, think tanks, advocacy, academia or the private sector.

Job Description

The person appointed will be expected to:

  • Execute and oversee delivery of research projects, including responsibility for budget management;
  • Develop RUSI’s current research work in the relevant subject area, by leading on business development in relation to relevant research projects, authoring successful bids and liaising with key public and private sector funders;
  • Ensure the highest levels of quality across research outputs, working closely with the RUSI Publications team;
  • Make a substantial contribution to enhancing the external and media profile of RUSI’s research in this area, working closely with the RUSI Communications team;
  • Contribute to published commentary and media engagement, thereby enhancing RUSI’s national and international profile and reputation.
  • As Acting Director, manage members of the programme, currently three full-time research staff;

Person Specification

The chosen candidate will be expected to demonstrate most of the following:

  • Evidenced and nationally recognised expertise in serious and organised crime and policing, and at least 8 years of demonstrated experience working on these topics.
  • Demonstrated ability and track record in leading the development and delivery of major research projects in the UK and internationally, with the ability to lead major research project bids for RUSI.
  • Demonstrated experience of working with governments in one of the following fields: civil service, advocacy, think tanks, the private sector or academia.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders from a variety of professional and cultural backgrounds and with broad variations in seniority and function;
  • Excellent analytical and methodological skills, and an organised approach to research;
  • Willingness and ability to contribute to the public understanding of your field, including through media engagements, and ability to present complex issues in an engaging and clear way;
  • Strong experience leading and managing research teams and well-developed interpersonal skills.

Salary and Benefits

The Senior Research Fellow position is a full-time permanent position (including a fixed-term full-time period as Acting Director) with a salary range of £40,000 – £60,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications. RUSI offers several additional benefits, including a pension scheme (6% employer contribution) and a travel season ticket loan, as well as free access to RUSI’s world-leading programme of events and conferences, research materials and library. 

RUSI is based in Whitehall in the heart of London, close to government and the amenities of central London. Charing Cross station (underground and national rail) and other underground stations are a short walk away.

Equal Opportunities

RUSI is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

RUSI’s values can be found here: https://rusi.org/content/values

Application Process

To apply, please send your CV, a sample of your written work, and covering letter stating why you consider that you are suitable for the role to Michael Codner, Director of Personnel Services, at [email protected]. The closing date for applications is 16 September 2019. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview.

You should have the right to work in the United Kingdom. You should be willing to travel internationally, should the role demand it.

You will be able to start work at RUSI in October/November 2019 on an agreed date.

Reference: RUSI-SRFSOC

Opening Date for Applications: 13 August 2019

Location: RUSI Whitehall

Salary: £40,000 – 60,000

Apply By: 16 September 2019 – 8.00 am


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