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Join the ODDA Research Hub Advisory Panel

Applications open 31 July and close 1 September 2026

How to Apply

The ODDA Research Hub brings together expertise from academia, industry, regulation, and policy to advance understanding of online dating and social discovery. We are a bridge between researchers and practitioners — producing work that’s rigorous, informed by real-world practice, and of practical value to the sector.

As we prepare to enter our pilot phase, we are forming an Advisory Panel. Below is a brief summary about the role of the Advisory Panel, the domains we are recruiting from, and how to apply. For the full details, please download our Governance Framework document.

Download the Governance Framework

RESEARCH HUB website – 1

Function of the Panel

The Panel is an advisory group whose recommendations carry weight in shaping the Hub.

Members contribute by:

    • Helping shape the Hub’s research priorities and ways of working during the pilot.

    • Providing domain expertise and independent advice to strengthen the quality and impact of the Hub’s research.

    • Facilitating knowledge exchange across the Panel’s four domains: member platforms; academia; regulation, government and law enforcement; and consumer interest and advocacy.

    • Identifying and supporting research opportunities.

    • Supporting funding bids and making introductions to potential funders and collaborators.

We are looking for people with expertise in their field, a willingness to contribute time and networks, and enthusiasm for the Hub’s mission.

Download the Governance Framework

Domains

We are recruiting two to three members from the following four domains:

  • ODDA member platforms
  • Academia
  • Regulation, government and law enforcement
  • Consumer interest and advocacy

Terms

  • Start: 1 November 2026.

  • Commitment: An online meeting every two weeks (around 30 minutes) and an in-person session each quarter (2–3 hours).

  • Term: The duration of the pilot phase (roughly 12–14 months).

  • Voluntary: The role is unpaid during the pilot. Reasonable travel expenses for the quarterly in-person meetings are reimbursed.

  • Appointments: Successful applicants will be announced at the ODDA Annual Conference on 8 October 2026.

How to Apply

  1. Write a short letter addressed to the ODDA Board outlining your experience and expertise, and explaining how you would contribute to the Research Advisory Panel and the wider Hub.

  2. Email the letter to [email protected] by 1 September 2026.

  3. What happens next: the ODDA CEO, Simon Newman, and the Hub Lead, Lauren Sharp, will review all applications and shortlist candidates for a brief interview. Recommendations will then be submitted to the Board, which will make the final appointments. Successful applicants will be required to sign a written agreement before joining the Panel.

  4. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a brief interview in September 2026. Successful applicants will be announced at the ODDA Annual Conference on 8 October 2026, with the Panel commencing on 1 November 2026.

Before Making an Application

Please note the following before you apply:

  • The role is voluntary and unpaid during the pilot phase, with reasonable travel expenses covered for in-person meetings.
  • You will be asked to declare any relevant interests when you join and to keep them up to date. Declarations are recorded in a Register of Interests. This is standard governance practice and helps protect both you and the Hub.
  • All members will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement. The Hub requires that confidential information and draft research remain confidential during and after your membership.
  • As the role is voluntary, you may step down at any time. However, we ask that you provide reasonable notice (typically four weeks) to enable a smooth handover of any ongoing work.
  • Changing jobs will not automatically end your membership. The role is based on your expertise and the perspective you bring, rather than your job title.
  • Panel membership and project participation are separate. Joining the Panel does not automatically mean joining a research project, as each project has its own agreements. Likewise, you may continue contributing to a research project after your Panel membership has ended, subject to the terms of that project.

Download the Governance Framework

Questions?

We’re happy to hear from you before you apply. Please feel free to get in touch: [email protected].