You're interested in research management jobs. What's the best way to find the most innovative ones?

1 Identify your niche

The first step to finding innovative research management jobs is to identify your niche and focus on the areas that excite you the most. Research management is a broad and diverse field that covers many disciplines, sectors, and domains. You might have a background in science, engineering, social sciences, humanities, or arts, and you might want to work in academia, industry, government, or non-profit organizations. Whatever your niche is, you need to narrow down your search and target the employers and projects that align with your expertise and passion.

2 Network and connect

The second step to finding innovative research management jobs is to network and connect with other research managers and professionals in your niche. Networking is a key way to learn about new and emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in research management. You can network and connect through various channels, such as online platforms, social media, events, webinars, podcasts, blogs, newsletters, and journals. You can also join relevant associations, groups, and communities that offer resources, support, and guidance for research managers. By networking and connecting, you can build your reputation, showcase your skills, and discover potential employers and collaborators.

3 Showcase your portfolio

The third step to finding innovative research management jobs is to showcase your portfolio and demonstrate your value and impact. A portfolio is a collection of evidence that highlights your achievements, skills, and competencies as a research manager. Your portfolio might include your resume, cover letter, references, testimonials, certificates, awards, publications, presentations, reports, case studies, or samples of your work. You can create and update your portfolio using online tools, such as websites, blogs, portfolios, or e-portfolios. You can also use your portfolio to apply for grants, fellowships, scholarships, or other funding opportunities that can support your research management career.

4 Explore different sources

The fourth step to finding innovative research management jobs is to explore different sources and platforms that advertise and promote research management vacancies. There are many sources and platforms that you can use to find and apply for research management jobs, such as job boards, career sites, databases, directories, newsletters, alerts, or social media. Some of these sources and platforms are general, while others are specific to your niche, sector, or domain. You can also use search engines, keywords, filters, or criteria to refine your search and find the most relevant and suitable research management jobs for you.

5 Be flexible and adaptable

The fifth step to finding innovative research management jobs is to be flexible and adaptable and embrace new challenges and opportunities. Research management is a fast-paced and evolving field that requires constant learning, improvement, and innovation. You might need to adapt to different contexts, environments, cultures, stakeholders, or technologies. You might also need to learn new skills, tools, methods, or frameworks. You might also need to take risks, experiment, or collaborate with diverse and interdisciplinary teams. By being flexible and adaptable, you can enhance your employability, performance, and satisfaction as a research manager.

6 Follow your passion

The sixth and final step to finding innovative research management jobs is to follow your passion and pursue your goals and aspirations. Research management is a rewarding and fulfilling career that allows you to contribute to the advancement of knowledge, society, and humanity. You can find innovative research management jobs that match your passion and purpose by setting clear and realistic objectives, identifying your strengths and areas of improvement, seeking feedback and mentorship, and celebrating your achievements and successes. By following your passion, you can enjoy and excel in your research management career.