The Role
Cuan is seeking to recruit a HEO - Research to form part of a dynamic, quality-focused research team to contribute to and continue to build a knowledge base and evidence-informed response to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence issues informed by the lived experience of victim- survivors.
The successful postholder will contribute to the delivery of a co-ordinated approach to the development of evidence-informed responses to DSGBV nationally, to include the following key activities:
- Undertaking, commissioning and collaborating on high quality primary and secondary research to generate an evidence base on relevant DSGBV themes to inform planning.
- Translation of research into knowledge to inform planning and the development of public policy.
- Implementing robust evaluation and measurement mechanisms at Agency, programme and project levels.
- Engaging with the research community to enhance knowledge in the DSGBV space, to establish and contribute to networks and programmes of shared interests and achieve a strategic focus on DSGBV research.
- Supporting delivery of overall Cuan and TNS objectives through generation of a knowledge capacity within the Agency.
- Development of data capability and supporting service deliver and design with analysis. The HEO - Research will report to the Assistant Principal for Research.
Key Responsibilities of the role
Leading on the successful delivery of high-quality research and evaluation projects and initiatives. This will involve:
- Managing and overseeing commissioning processes for research and evaluation studies in line with Cuan’s research approach and national procurement guidelines.
- Working with colleagues to achieve appropriate structures for good research governance; risk and quality assurance; and appropriate oversight for research and evaluation studies.
- Critiquing reports; providing constructive feedback to academic and research organisations with a view to contributing to high quality publications.
- Overseeing and managing the preparation of research and evaluation reports and other documents for publication.
- Managing and supporting knowledge translation and research dissemination plans.
- Conducting literature reviews and information searches; analysing-data in-house and producing evidence-informed reports internally.
- Planning, monitoring and controlling expenditure for designated programmes of work within the Research and Data function.
- Proactively contributing to business planning processes for the research programme in line with national strategic goals and reporting on progress in line with business planning requirements.
- Liaising with colleagues across other Cuan functions (e.g. service delivery; communications; strategic engagement) to advise, support on research, information and knowledge-related matters.
- Supervising and supporting relevant research team members or associates to carry out their responsibilities.
- Prepare briefings for Cuan Board and Cuan management and assist colleagues with responses to external queries on emerging issues.
- Keeping abreast of national and international developments relating to research infrastructure; good research practice; knowledge translation; policy initiatives and continually striving to incorporate good practice into operational planning and research processes.
- Working closely with and developing effective communication processes with the Research and Data team and colleagues across Cuan’s functions to define and deliver projects collaboratively.
- Championing the role of research and the value of research-informed practice in informing policy and practice within and outside of Cuan.
- Creating and contributing to a positive working environment among team members, with regular meetings to maintain and enhance effective working relationships
- Understanding the value of effective stakeholder engagement and developing excellent working relationships with key stakeholders as required, including Cuan colleagues, government departments,
- academic organisations, and non-governmental and community organisations.
- Developing cross-organisational linkages where value for money can be achieved and effective collaboration can provide enhanced outcomes for the public
Essential Requirements
- A postgraduate qualification at Level 9 or above (Masters or PhD level), in a relevant discipline e.g. social science, psychology, public health etc.
- Demonstrated experience of managing and/or delivering policy or service-related research and/or evaluation studies to a high standard.
- Demonstrated understanding of research methodologies and procedures including, quantitative and qualitative; primary and secondary research; data management and storage; ethical and consent procedures; report production; knowledge translation; research governance.
- Experience of developing and writing research reports to publication standard.
- Experience of communicating complex information and communicating research outcomes to a broad and diverse audience. High level of initiative and self-direction.
- Demonstrated track record of delivery on projects.
- Experience of delivering high-quality research and/or evaluation studies in a service, policy, research funding or academic environment.
- Deep understanding of research methodologies and procedures including, quantitative and qualitative; primary and secondary research; data management and storage; ethical and consent procedures; report production; knowledge translation and research governance.
- Knowledge and understanding of current national priorities in relation to Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence, and the wider policy context for gender-based violence/violence against women.
- Well-developed appreciation of the need to address the gap between research and practice and an understanding of the approaches to address this.
- Critical thinking and the ability to critique research studies to support with quality assurance.
- The ability to work effectively with a range of stakeholders, including Cuan colleagues, government departments, academic organisations, non-governmental organisations.
- A high level of computer literacy including Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint etc., and a willingness to develop IT skills relevant to the role.
- Experience of using survey and analytical software packages (e.g. SPSS, NVivo, Smart Survey etc)
- Experience of working in a fast paced, dynamic working environment and managing multiple priorities.
- Experience of undertaking research and/or other significant project delivery where there are multiple stakeholders.
- Knowledge and understanding of current national priorities in relation to Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence (DSGBV).
- Experience of commissioning research and evaluation studies in line with national procurement guidelines and research governance protocols.
- An understanding of the need to address the gap between research and practice and approaches to address this.
- Specific research experience around DSGBV, gender or equality-related areas.
- In addition to the above, candidates must also be able to demonstrate the Key Capabilities identified for effective performance at this level.
