Working towards a world where paralysis can be cured
Are you our next Director of Research & Innovation?
Spinal Research stands as the UK’s premier charity dedicated to financing the medical breakthroughs required to repair and restore the spinal cord. Founded in 1981, the organisation operates on a definitive conviction: that a future exists where paralysis can be cured, and where individuals affected by spinal cord injuries can access life-changing, transformative therapies. Until now, paralysis was considered permanent, completely incurable and unimprovable, but today, advances in science are fundamentally changing what is possible for the millions of people affected worldwide.
Over the past forty years, Spinal Research has been at the forefront of driving advancement within this field. By backing pioneering initiatives globally, the charity empowers international scientists and clinicians to pioneer novel pathways in spinal repair, functional recovery and neurorehabilitation.
At a historic moment for life sciences, Spinal Research remains focused on maintaining this momentum, investing heavily in the strategic alliances, scientific portfolios and technological innovations required to bring next-generation medical solutions directly to the people who need them.
Click below to find our full candidate pack and apply now!
Join as our Director of Research & Innovation
Joining Spinal Research means becoming part of a global movement committed to transforming lives, restoring independence and funding the breakthroughs that will cure paralysis.
As you step into your role as Director of Research & Innovation, you’ll help shape the next chapter of our story - reviewing, influencing and driving forward our established research and innovation strategy while expanding our scientific reach, deepening strategic partnerships and accelerating the delivery of next-generation treatments.
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You are an accomplished scientific or clinical leader with a proven record of driving translational research, ownership of innovative strategies and forging lasting, high-impact partnerships. You bring intellectual curiosity, strategic insight and a collaborative spirit to every challenge.
The ideal candidate will have:
A strong track record of designing, managing and scaling complex research portfolios or innovation programmes across discovery science and clinical development.
Experience building and navigating multi-sector partnerships across academia, the NHS, industry, biotech or philanthropy.
The ability to inspire, lead and develop high-performing scientific or operational teams, alongside the gravitas to engage global advisory boards and trustees.
Outstanding stakeholder management skills, with a proven ability to translate complex data into compelling narratives for non-specialist audiences and major donors.
A deep belief in the power of pioneering innovation to create real-world impact, and a personal commitment to the mission to cure paralysis.
Click here for our candidate pack to discover more about this great opportunity!
A message from Louisa McGinn, CEO
About Spinal Research
We are focused on a clear long-term goal: a future where paralysis can be cured. Everything we do is directed towards achieving this by funding the right research, supporting the right people and helping ensure breakthroughs reach the people who need them.
We invest in groundbreaking research
Supporting studies and clinical trials with the greatest potential to lead to meaningful advances in treatment and recovery.
We support brilliant minds
Helping develop the next generation of spinal cord injury researchers through funding, collaboration and opportunity.
We foster global collaboration
Working with research institutions, clinicians, industry partners and organisations worldwide to accelerate discovery and share knowledge.
We raise awareness
Improving understanding of spinal cord injury research and the importance of continued investment in scientific progress.
We change perception
Supporting a shift in how spinal cord injury is understood, reinforcing that paralysis is not a closed field and that progress is possible.
In partnership with AAW
To support our ambitious investment in fundraising growth, we need to bring together the very best team. That’s why Spinal Research is proud to be partnering with specialist fundraising leadership and search consultancy, the AAW Group.
AAW’s deep sector knowledge and consultancy-led approach to recruitment ensures that they can truly understand which people will best fit our roles. For more information about AAW’s Executive Search, Shortlisting or Interim recruitment services, see below.