Lead Research Nurse

Job overview

Are you an inspiring senior nurse leader with a passion for research, innovation, and shaping the future of academic nursing? The Christie—one of Europe’s leading cancer centres and a world renowned hub for research excellence—is looking for a dynamic Lead Nurse for Academic Research to join our Research & Innovation Division. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to influence research strategy at organisational, regional, and national levels while supporting a talented and growing academic research nursing/AHP workforce. At The Christie, research isn’t an add on—it’s part of our DNA. You’ll be joining a Trust that is internationally recognised for pioneering clinical and academic research, delivering cutting edge treatments, and improving outcomes for patients across the globe. You’ll work alongside exceptional clinical teams, Higher Education Institutions, NIHR partners, and national research networks to drive forward a culture of research excellence. The Lead Nurse for Academic Research is a senior, high impact leadership role at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, responsible for shaping and driving the Trust’s academic research nursing strategy. This person provides both strategic and operational leadership to the Academic Research Nursing workforce, ensuring the delivery of high quality, safe, and effective research activity across the organisation. They will foster a culture of academic excellence, strengthen partnerships with NIHR and Higher Education Institutions, and support the integration of research into clinical practice. About You We’re looking for someone who brings: Essential •    Registered Nurse (NMC) with a degree in nursing or related subject.

• Master’s degree (or working towards).
• GCP training. •    Significant senior management experience in clinical or academic research. •    Advanced leadership, communication, and change management skills. •    In depth knowledge of research governance, NHS policy, and academic research frameworks. •    Leading on own research portfolio.

Main duties of the job

As the Lead Nurse for Academic Research, you will:  Lead & Inspire •    Provide strategic and operational leadership for the Academic Research Nursing workforce. •    Develop and deliver a Trust wide Academic Research Nursing strategy aligned with national and local priorities. •    Foster a culture of research and academic excellence, integrating research into everyday clinical practice. Collaborate & Influence •    Represent The Christie at local, regional, and national forums, including academic and research networks. •    Build and maintain strategic partnerships with HEIs, NIHR, and key research stakeholders. •    Support the Associate Chief Nurse with the implementation of the national SORT tool. Drive Operational Excellence •    Provide visible, professional leadership to academic research staff. •    Oversee the delivery of high quality research studies, ensuring compliance with GCP, governance, and regulatory standards. •    Lead on workforce planning, recruitment, retention, and development.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

• Manage resources effectively, including budget oversight and business case development. Advance Education & Professional Development •    Lead the development of education and training programmes for academic research staff. •    Support competency frameworks (NIHR, HEE) and promote academic career pathways. •    Facilitate mentorship, supervision, and appraisal processes. Champion Research & Innovation •    Lead and support the design, delivery, and dissemination of academic research projects. •    Identify funding opportunities and contribute to grant applications and publications. •    Act as PI or Co I on funded research, ensuring delivery to time, budget, and quality. •    Promote patient and public involvement (PPIE) and ensure inclusivity in research activity. An informal visit to discuss the post is highly recommended and encouraged. Please also see the supporting documents to support with your application.