"Assistant Contracts Officer"

Assistant Contracts Officer

University of Sheffield - Research Partnerships & Innovation

Location:Sheffield, HybridSalary:£26,942 to £30,805 with potential to progress to £33,482 through outstanding sustained contributionHours:Full TimeContract Type:PermanentPlaced On:13th August 2025Closes:5th September 2025Job Ref:1301

Join our team as an Assistant Contracts Officer

Are you a proactive, logical, and detail-oriented professional with great communication skills? Do you enjoy working in a supportive environment where you can develop expertise in contract negotiation and support groundbreaking research? If so, we want to hear from you!

The University of Sheffield is looking for an Assistant Contracts Officer to join our Research Contracts team. This is an opportunity to be at the heart of exciting research and innovation projects, contributing to their success by protecting their intellectual property.

What you'll gain:

• Meaningful Impact: You’ll be responsible for negotiating confidentiality and standard contracts, working with a diverse range of partners from universities and charities to commercial organisations and the NHS.
• Professional Growth: We are committed to your development. You'll receive comprehensive training and support from colleagues, allowing you to convert your existing skills into expertise in drafting, reviewing and negotiating research contracts. Expect excellent professional development opportunities.
• Encouraging Team Environment: Join a friendly, collaborative team that values your contributions and encourages mutual support. We believe in working together to achieve the best outcomes.
• Flexible Working: Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with our hybrid working model, splitting your time between campus (50%) and remote work (50%).
• Continuously expand your knowledge in contracting and relevant legal issues, while contributing to the University's commitment to ethical decisions and sustainability.

We are seeking an individual who is:

• Pragmatic and Proactive: You approach challenges logically and take initiative.
• Customer-Focused: You listen and respond effectively to the needs of all parties involved.
• Detail-Oriented: You have excellent attention to detail, especially when working under deadlines.
• Clear Communicator: You can explain complex terms straightforwardly, both in writing and verbally.
• Inquisitive and Adaptable: You're keen to learn and can manage changing priorities with ease.

You'll draft, review and negotiate research agreements, including confidentiality, material transfer, and collaboration agreements. You'll provide clear advice and guidance to academic and professional staff on contracting issues and intellectual property, maintaining accurate records to ensure seamless contract processes.

Collaboration and teamwork are at the heart of our success. You'll build positive relationships within your allocated faculty, ensuring they have the tools and information they need to access our services.

In this role, you'll be a vital part of a dynamic and friendly team of 18, who collectively draft and review over 3,000 research contracts annually. We're a busy department, fueled by camaraderie and a shared dedication to supporting research excellence. You'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded professionals, all working together to achieve a common goal.

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.