ABOUT US

The Universities Policy Engagement Network (UPEN) was set up in 2018 by approximately ten higher education institutions. It now has more than 110 UK university and policy members. Institutional leads from each university comprise the knowledge exchange brokers/policy impact colleagues whose responsibilities include disseminating opportunities to relevant colleagues within their institution. The network is voluntary, and we are funded entirely by voluntary donations.
In 2025, UPEN was awarded funding from Research England and the ESRC to deliver a project focused on infrastructure and capabilities for academic–policy engagement in the UK.
The role is based in the UCL Public Policy team, within UCL Research, Innovation and Global Engagement. UCL Public Policy is UCL’s strategic institutional programme to build engagement between researchers and policymakers and enhance the contribution of UCL’s academic expertise to public policy. It supports capacity-building within UCL, undertakes coordination and brokerage across the institution, delivers knowledge exchange and policy engagement activities, and strengthens the communication and dissemination of UCL research.
UCL Research, Innovation & Global Engagement brings together a range of functions, services and resources for the UCL community and external partners. We are dedicated to supporting people, crossing boundaries and enabling responsible impact – for the greater good, locally, nationally and internationally.
If we get a lot of interest, we may close the external advert earlier than the stated deadline, so it’s a good idea to apply as soon as you can.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Administration and Events Assistant will be an important member of UPEN’s national programme, providing vital administrative, financial, and events support to ensure the smooth running of its activities. The successful candidate will work closely with colleagues across UCL and partner institutions, coordinating diaries, arranging meetings, booking travel and accommodation, and preparing agendas and papers. The role also involves managing purchase orders and expenses, maintaining accurate financial records, and supporting the tracking of budgets.
A significant part of the position will focus on organising UPEN’s events programme, from planning and promotion to delivery and post-event evaluation. This will include liaising with speakers and participants, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring that each event is delivered to a high standard. The work is varied and fast-paced, with responsibilities ranging from supporting high-level strategic meetings to helping deliver workshops, conferences, and community events. The role offers the opportunity to contribute to a high-profile national initiative that connects academic expertise with pressing policy needs.

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:

• 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• On-Site nursery
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted medical insuranc