Approvals Specialist
Job summary
HRA Approval is a system that simplifies the approvals process for research, to make it easier for studies to be set up and reduce duplication and bureaucracy. It provides a single application, single assessment and single approval for research in the NHS across all study types and incorporate assessments by NHS staff alongside the independent Research Ethics Committee opinion, allowing local resources to be focussed on successful local delivery of studies.
This post is an exciting opportunity to be part of a team that delivers the operational function for HRA Approval. We are looking for individuals who can bring experience of health research and can demonstrate enthusiasm to deliver an effective and efficient approval system for research.
Main duties of the job
They must have an understanding of the HRA role and remit, knowledge of a range of administrative practices and procedures plus evidence of practical experience at a similar level. They will have a well-developed knowledge and expertise of operating systems within the NHS or similar field and excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise against a background of change and uncertainty. Experience of working to complex policies, of working with people at all levels in an organisation and of working to tight deadlines is essential.
About us
At the HRA, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive working environment where we actively invest in the development and empowerment of our staff, enabling them to perform at their best. We strive to promote a healthy workplace culture where wellbeing, collaboration, andprofessional growth are valued and encouraged.Working at the HRA, we support flexible working, recognising that home based or hybrid arrangements provides us with the most productive environment to work well. Where possible, we'll offer a working pattern that suits you.The HRA offers home based contracts for all locations. Newcastle, Manchester and Nottingham based staff can be office based and hybrid working arrangements are also possible. We encourageyou to speak with us to explore how this could be accommodated.We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. We know from experience that different ideas, perspectives and backgrounds create a stronger, more creative workplace that helps us to deliver the best services. We welcome applications whichrepresent the rich diversity of our community: age, disability, gender identity and expression, ethnicity, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation and other diverse characteristics, and we have policies in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process.
Job responsibilities
Please refer to the attached job description and person specification documents for full details about this role.When completing your application, ensure you clearly demonstrate how your experience and skillsalign with the criteria outlined for this position.We recognise that generative AI tools can be helpful in supporting applicants during the recruitment process, particularly for tasks such as proofreading, structuring, or refining written responses. However, we encourage candidates to use AI responsibly and sparingly. Applications should reflect your authentic voice, personal experiences, and genuine qualifications. Over reliance on AI generated content can result in generic or inaccurate submissions that fail to meet the criteria or convey your individuality. Misrepresentation of skills, knowledge, or experience, including through AI-generated content, may lead to the rejection of your application, withdrawal of your offer, or your dismissal if you do start with us. If you choose to use AI, please ensure it enhances rather than replaces your own input, and be transparent about its use where appropriate. False and insincere examples go against our values of integrity and transparency.Important informationWe are unable to offer employment under any sponsorship arrangement as we do not hold a sponsorship licence. Applications requiring sponsorship will not be considered.Applications that do not clearly demonstrate how the essential criteria outlined in the personspecification are met will not be shortlisted.Only the information provided in the application form will be considered. CVs will not be reviewed.We do not accept applications via recruitment agencies or other third parties.The HRA reserves the right to close this vacancy early should it receive a sufficient number of applications.Our fixed term roles are also open to applicants who wish to apply on a secondment basis. Applicants who fit this category are advised to speak with their line manager before applying and visit their organisations Secondments Policy.
Person Specification
QUALIFICATIONS
Essential
- Degree-level qualification or evidenced ability to work at a similar intellectual level
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERTIS
Essential
- Thorough understanding of the HRA role and remit including knowledge of principles and processes for approving and conducting health research in England, including legal and ethical requirements relating to research, and the ability to apply this knowledge practically
- Knowledge of relevant legislation and national policy including Human Tissue Act, Mental Capacity Act, Data Protection Act, General Data Protection Regulation, Clinical Trials Regulations, which impacts on conduct of research and some understanding of NHS research funding and contracting arrangements
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise against a background of change and uncertainty with problem solving and analytical skills, including ability to interpret and prepare reports and ability to work to frequent deadlines and to manage multiple processes and cases simultaneously
- Research approvals system and change management/ service improvement experience
- Highly self-motivated, confident, pro-active, innovative, with ability to work independently and on own initiative and able to develop good communications with REC Chairs and Members and the extended research community. Flexible working approach, with proactive approach to change
- Willingness to regularly travel nationally including being absent from home and outside of core hours
Desirable
- Presentation skills including the ability to conduct meetings and deliver presentations and workshops using a range of presentational aids
Employer details
Employer name
Health Research Authority
Address
Home Based
Home Based
M1 3BN
United Kingdom
