Director, Defence Materials Centre of Excellence (DMEx) at The University of Manchester

The Defence Materials Centre of Excellence (DMEx) will be based in the Henry Royce Institute for Advanced Materials (Royce) Hub at  the University of Manchester – a powerhouse of research and discovery that is recognised globally for its pioneering research, outstanding teaching and learning, and commitment to social responsibility. DMEx will bring together world-leading researchers from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), industry, research & technology organisations and academia from across the UK to develop the next generation of advanced materials systems for extreme physical environments. The Centre will focus on research and development related to the discovery, manufacture and performance of  structural/engineering materials working in extreme environments relevant to the defence sector.

Starting at pace by building upon existing experimental capability, it will be one of the most well-connected, capable and collaborative materials R&D capabilities in the world, able and committed to enabling UK Defence and Security to maintain strategic and operational technological advantage. DMEx has a distinct identity and governance structure, building and expanding upon the collegiality, national networking, foresighting and expert capability and facilities already established through the DMEx partners . From inception, the centre will be immediately capable, collaborative and connected, which is essential if the UK is to stay ahead of threats faced in a rapidly changing defence landscape.

Royce is a federation of universities successfully working together and making their facilities available in an open access manner. It brings together world-leading researchers and facilities from across the UK and works closely with industry to help accelerate the translation and commercialisation of fundamental research. Operating as a collaborative partnership, with its hub at the University of Manchester, Royce encompasses the universities of Cambridge, Cranfield, Imperial College London, Leeds, Liverpool, Oxford, Sheffield, and Strathclyde, plus the UK Atomic Energy Authority and the National Nuclear Laboratory. The DMEx Hub is co-located in the Royce Hub in with the University of Manchester as the lead contractor and financial sponsor. Once full operational capability is reached, the Centre will also look to engage widely to ensure it has access to the very best capabilities in the UK.

We are seeking an outstanding individual to lead, develop, and be responsible for the delivery of the strategy, including accountability for the portfolio of work through the Centre. The individual will be responsible for managing key relationships with Centre partners across academia, industry and Dstl, and will ensure the delivery of the Centre’s contractual KPIs. The successful candidate will bring an in-depth understanding of delivering complex programmes within a research organisation or industrial setting. They will have a track record of successful delivery alongside a strong technical leadership background. Experience of at least one area of relevance to the Centre would be desirable, as would knowledge of the UK defence market.

There will be a competitive package on offer with a salary commensurate with experience. The individual will be employed through the University and eligible for pension under the University scheme.

For further information, including details of how to apply, please visit www.odgers.com/90922. Applications are invited at your earliest convenience, and by no later than close of business on Friday 19 April 2024.

The University of Manchester welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process.