Head of Research & Innovation

About the role

The University of Malawi seeks a senior academic leader to head its Research & Innovation unit. The role provides both operational and strategic direction to enhance research quality, funding, compliance and impact across the university.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate implementation of the institutional research strategy and policies.
• Oversee research development services, including grant identification and proposal support.
• Strengthen systems for research governance, ethics, compliance and integrity.
• Monitor and report on research performance, outputs and impact.
• Support academic staff and research centres in securing external funding.
• Manage research information systems and reporting to national and international bodies.
• Facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations and capacity‑building in research methods.
• Provide secretariat and technical support to university research committees and oversee intellectual property management.

Required profile

• PhD or equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
• Academic rank of Senior Lecturer or higher.
• Minimum five years of experience in research leadership, research management or senior academic roles.
• Demonstrated understanding of research governance, ethics and compliance frameworks.
• Proven track record in supporting successful grant applications and managing research projects.
• Experience working with national, regional and international funding agencies.