About CaSE
Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE) exists to advocate for UK R&D, for the benefit of lives and livelihoods.
We are a charity and the leading independent voice for UK R&D, supported by a diverse membership including businesses, universities, professional bodies, research charities and individuals. Our 100+ organisational members span the whole breadth of R&D – including discovery research, science, engineering, and innovation across the public, private, and charitable sectors.
We collaborate with our members, partners and the public to lend our clear, expert voice to decisions about R&D. We specialise in developing non-partisan, responsive solutions that help research and innovation to thrive in ways that improve people’s lives and livelihoods.
CaSE is a small organisation that has a big impact. Over the last year alone CaSE has made the voice of R&D heard on major issues, including: exploring a public-led vision for the future of R&D in the UK, understanding how R&D can build stronger links with communities, highlighting the role of R&D in the Government’s five missions, mapping out the future of R&D in universities, and bringing R&D to the attention of politicians during the 2024 General Election campaign. CaSE also maintains an active media presence and hosts major events, such as our flagship Annual Lecture.
Our website offer more information on CaSE’s Purpose and Values and our current Board members.
The role
CaSE is entering an exciting new phase of its evolution, with a goal of building on the strength of our work to expand CaSE’s income and profile. The Board of CaSE are seeking a qualified legal professional to join as a trustee, to help the organisation navigate in that direction.
Candidates must have a passion for R&D and benefits it can bring to lives and livelihoods across the UK, but do not necessarily have to have worked within the R&D sector. Candidates must be willing and able to draw on their legal expertise to support the CaSE Executive team with occasional general legal guidance around grant agreements, procurement and HR, including helping to identify when paid-for external advice would be necessary.
Expertise in advising or working for charities or small organisations would be desirable.
The opportunity
This is a chance to be part of the UK’s leading advocate for R&D. As a trustee, you will bring your unique perspective to a small but highly productive team, to help set CaSE’s strategic direction and advise the staff who run the organisation on a day-to-day basis.
The Board meets four times per year in January, April, June, and October, typically with alternating virtual and in-person formats, alongside an AGM in November. While the role is not remunerated, trustees can claim reasonable travel expenses.
The term of appointment is three years, with the option of a second term.
Who we are looking for
CaSE believes that a diverse Board is a more effective Board. We are increasing the diversity of our board to better reflect the community we represent and the wider public. We currently have a fantastic and committed Board, but there are several groups who are underrepresented among our Trustees. We are committed to changing this.
With this in mind, we particularly welcome applications from those from minority ethnic groups and those living with disabilities. Previous board or trustee experience is useful but not essential, and we actively welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds who would be interested in growing into a trustee role.
Application process
To apply, please submit the following to recruitment@sciencecampaign.org.uk by 23:59 on Wednesday 4th June:
- Up to 500 words outlining your interest in the role and your relevant skills, knowledge and experience
- Your CV (2-page maximum)
We also ask applicants to consider submitting a diversity monitoring form alongside their application. This confidential form has no impact on the recruitment process, but enables us to evaluate and improve our recruitment process.
All information submitted will be handled in accordance with the CaSE Privacy Policy.
To discuss the role or request any adjustments to the recruitment process, please contact Nesh Ismail, CaSE Office Manager (recruitment@sciencecampaign.org.uk), who will arrange for you to speak with the Chair of the Nominations and Appointments Committee, Ron Mobed, or a suitable alternative.
The Nominations and Appointments Committee will draw up a shortlist of candidates in mid-June. Following this, online interviews with prospective candidates will be arranged in the week commencing 23 June, with candidates being notified of the results shortly after. New Board members will be formally announced at the November AGM.