The Royal College of Art is seeking an experienced and highly credible academic leader to take on the role of Executive Academic Lead for the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029.
This is a significant strategic opportunity to shape and lead the RCA’s approach to REF29, working closely with the PVC Research & Innovation, Executive Professional Services Lead, Deans, Directors and colleagues across the RCA.
The Executive Academic Lead will develop and lead the implementation of the RCA’s REF29 Strategy, ensuring that our submission reflects the breadth, quality and distinctiveness of research across art and design, including the excellence of our research outputs, the impact of our research and the quality of the research environment that supports it.
You will provide academic leadership and oversight throughout the REF preparation process, including the curation and selection of research outputs, the development of environment statements and the selection of Impact Case Studies. You will work closely with Deans and Directors to support preparation within Schools and Centres, while ensuring a coherent and ambitious institutional approach to the submission.
The role will also provide strategic leadership through the RCA’s REF29 governance arrangements, including chairing the REF29 Strategy Group and reporting to the Research & Innovation Committee. You will represent the RCA in relevant external networks and REF-related forums, maintaining a strong understanding of the evolving national research assessment landscape.
We are looking for a senior academic with a strong research profile and significant experience of academic leadership within higher education. You will have a credible track record of research excellence and substantial experience of research assessment, quality assurance or comparable large-scale academic processes. Experience of previous REF cycles would be highly valuable.
You will bring exceptional strategic thinking, analytical and communication skills, together with the ability to build consensus and influence colleagues across a complex institution. A detailed understanding of the UK research landscape, REF requirements and research excellence in art and design practice is essential.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in shaping how the RCA presents and demonstrates its research excellence, impact and research environment through REF29.
If you are an experienced academic leader who can bring strategic vision, research expertise and collaborative leadership to this important institutional priority, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Please see Information Pack for more details of this exciting role. Please apply using the short application form, with an upload for your CV and a covering letter outlining your reasons for applying for the role, the skills and experience you bring.
Closing for applications at 11.59pm on 18th October 2026
RCA Benefits available here: https://www.rca.ac.uk/more/work-at-the-rca/staff-benefits/
The Royal College of Art (RCA) aims to foster an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all its staff and students and stakeholders are respected.
We recognise the broad range of experiences that a diverse staff and student body brings and how this strengthens our research and enhances our teaching. In order for RCA to remain a world-leading institution we are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles throughout all of our processes, from application through to appointment.
Please tell us if you need any assistance in applying or if you need the information in a different format. In your message to resourcing@rca.ac.uk include:
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