Head of Research

About CARDET

CARDET is one of the leading research and development centers in Cyprus and the region, dedicated to promoting social impact, innovation, and lifelong learning. At CARDET, we envision a just and sustainable world where people learn and flourish. Our mission is to design innovative education and development services that empower individuals and communities to thrive. We believe that education can be a powerful force for change — addressing global challenges by equipping people with the knowledge, skills, and values to build a better future.

About the Role

The Head of Research leads CARDET's research and content development portfolio, ensuring all outputs are high-quality, innovative, and evidence-based. The role combines strategic vision with hands-on leadership, mentoring a team of researchers and grant developers, and ensuring research excellence across all projects.  The successful candidate will be a key "thought leader", representing the organisation in high level consortia, panels and events.

Working closely with the Director of Program Management & Implementation, the postholder aligns research work with organizational priorities, EU frameworks, and CARDET's long-term mission for social impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a diverse team of researchers, content experts, and grant developers, fostering a culture of excellence, trust, and growth.
  
  

• Ensure all research deliverables (reports, lesson plans, training materials, policy briefs) meet CARDET's quality and ethical standards.
  
  

• Implement internal quality assurance and peer-review systems across projects.
  
  

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers/Researchers to align research content and delivery timelines.
  
  

• Partner with Business Development and EU Grants teams to strengthen proposals with strong evidence and innovation.
  
  

• Coordinate with Subject Matter Experts to ensure thematic consistency and methodological rigor.
  
  

• Develop and refine research methodologies, digital workflows, and templates for improved efficiency.
  
  

• Introduce innovative research practices, including the use of AI and digital tools.
  
  

• Represent CARDET in national and international networks, conferences, and research partnerships.
  
  

• Contribute to organizational learning by promoting knowledge-sharing, capacity building, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications and Experience

• Master's degree in Education, Social Sciences, Health, AI, Digital Learning, or related field (PhD considered an asset).

• Demonstrated experience (typically 5+ years)leading or coordinating research and innovation projects within EU or international frameworks.

• Demonstrated experience in leading and mentoring research teams.

• Strong writing, analysis, and communication skills in both Greek and English.

• Familiarity with programs such as Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, or other EU funding mechanisms.

Key Skills and Attributes

• Strong leadership, coordination, and mentoring capabilities.

• Excellent interpersonal and cross-functional collaboration skills.

• Strategic and analytical thinker with attention to quality and detail.

• Passion for innovation, learning and impact-driven research.

• Excellent writing, communication, and stakeholder engagement abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results under tight timelines.

We offer:

• Inclusive, wellbeing-oriented, and family-friendly culture

• Provident Fund, 13th salary, and generous annual leave

• Fully paid maternity/paternity leave and 5 paid sick days

• Lifelong learning and professional development opportunities

• Flexible hybrid work and shorter Fridays

How to Apply

CARDET welcomes candidates who share our passion for learning, innovation, and social justice and who are ready to make a meaningful impact through research.

Candidates are invited to complete the online application form and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter by 5th December 2025.

​Shortlisted candidates will be asked to:

• Complete a self-declaration form confirming they have not been subject to disciplinary, administrative, or criminal sanctions.

• Provide two professional references and a clear criminal record certificate from the Cyprus Police.

• Submit samples of previous research or writing work upon request.

The position will remain open until filled. All applications will be treated in strict confidence and evaluated fairly.

Due to the large number of applications we receive, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Equal Opportunities & Safeguarding

CARDET is an HR Award-winning, equal opportunities, and disability-confident employer of choice. The organization has been accredited with the Sound Industrial Relations 2014 Standard and is fully committed to promoting, safeguarding and preventing all forms of sexual abuse and exploitation.