Innovation Lead - National Security & Defence

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Applications must be submitted by; 14-07-2026 Innovation Lead - National Security & Defence You will be joining a team of specialists at the heart of this fast-moving and high-profile programme, in its early stages of set-up, to deliver against national R&D priorities. *Please note this advert will close on the 13th of July 2026 at 23.59pm. Watch our video "Why Join Innovate UK?" here . Title: Innovation Lead - National Security & Defence Band: UKRI Band F (UKRI Ts & Cs) Salary: £58,589 gross per annum Reports to: Deputy Challenge Director Location: Field based Contract: Permanent Innovate UK recognises the importance of work-life balance and we will be happy to discuss any requests for flexible working arrangements. Context: Innovate UK is adapting its strategy to align more closely with the Government's Modern Industrial Strategy (2025). A new area of focus will be supporting National Security & Defence (NSAD) objectives and the growth of companies involved in the development of dual-use technologies. To fulfill these objectives, a new programme launched in April to be delivered by the new [National Security &] Defence (NS&D) Growth Sector team, and a key part of the broader UKRI NS&D programme. The aim of the Dual-Use Technology Innovation Programme (DTIP) is to help deliver a resilient, sovereign, and technologically advanced UK NS&D ecosystem by 2030 through targeted, collaborative, and regionally inclusive innovation investment in dual-use technologies. This will create opportunities for a high-growth economy that catalyses rapid growth amongst our most promising businesses alongside delivering NS&D specific objectives. Working with stakeholders across government to identify and exploit the commercial potential of these technology flows will be a key theme of the DTIP programme. We will support the transfer of technologies from civil to defence and unlock new markets for defence and security applications, with a key focus on positioning public-sector users and defence supply-chains as launch customers. We will also work to build the industrial capability and resilience of key dual-use sectors and remove barriers to adoption for the use of autonomous platforms and enabling technologies. The overall DTIP programme will focus on: Establishing the Dual-use concept as the primary delivery mechanism for UKRI's industry focussed NS&D activities, building relationships across industry and government and providing a platform for sustained innovation and growth through high potential businesses in the prioritised thematic areas. Problem-focused research and development - Developing an Innovate UK operating model to deliver for NS&D, aligned with the wider UKRI research portfolio to feed NS&D & growth opportunities. Addressing immediate NS&D & civil priorities, including autonomous systems, and reducing barriers to the adoption of other key dual-use technologies whilst providing continuity of support to sectors with significant dual-use potential. Addressing the R&D needs of the UK's National Security agencies and civil security providers - including halting the illegal use of drones to deliver items into prisons. Exploring opportunities for international partnerships, opening new markets for UK companies and contributing to HMG commitments with strategic allies. Connecting with government's other flagship R&D programmes, leveraging the technical developments and aligning with defence and security objectives to accelerate progress and position UK businesses amongst global leaders. Build effective partnerships with MoD and other government departments and agencies We particularly welcome female applicants as women are under-represented within Innovate UK in this type of role. Job Purpose: You will be joining a team of specialists at the heart of this fast-moving and high-profile programme, in its early stages of set-up, to deliver against national R&D priorities. Reporting to the Deputy Challenge Director, this role will put the successful candidate at the forefront of cutting-edge technology development spanning defence & security and civil applications. The successful candidate will work with a wide range of industry and public-sector partners to deliver this significant R&D programme. By using the insight gained from stakeholders the role-holder will be asked to propose and deliver activities, studies and further funding to help the programme meet its objectives. As a knowledgeable advocate of the technologies being developed, you will engage with colleagues across the public sector to support integration with complementary innovation programmes. Engaging with wider technical and business communities will also be required, as is working internally with colleagues at Innovate UK and in the broader civil service. Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities: Build strong working relationships with relevant bodies and networks to support the development and delivery of thematic programme priorities. T

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