The University of Cambridge is seeking an exceptional relationship-builder and negotiator to help develop, manage and grow research and innovation partnerships between the University and industry, in the physical sciences disciplines.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a newly established Business Engagement function within the central University's Research Office. You will play a role in shaping the new function and lead on strengthening collaboration between world-leading researchers in both the School of Physical Sciences and the School of Technology and industry partners.
We are looking for someone who understands the power of strategic partnership management and has experience in both the academic and commercial worlds that will allow them to act as a bridge between different working cultures, priorities, and approaches to problem solving, and enhance the number and depth of research partnerships in these two schools.
About the Role
The University of Cambridge is internationally acclaimed for its contribution to physical sciences and technology research and innovation. The researchers supported by the Business Engagement function work on some of the world's most pressing challenges, and research collaborations with industry partners generates unique opportunities for powerful societal benefit.
As Business Engagement Manager, you will lead on the Business Engagement function's support for the Schools of Physical Sciences and Technology, ensuring that activities are responsive to the needs of researchers in both schools. You will build close relationships with academic departments, senior research stakeholders and external partner organisations to support and enhance existing collaborative programmes, and you will work closely with researchers to initiate new partnership opportunities within target sectors. You will work collaboratively with colleagues in the research community, Cambridge University Development and Alumni Relations, Cambridge Enterprise, and the University Research Office to coordinate support for opportunities and codevelop solutions to shared challenges. Your work will promote professionalism and best practice in partnership management across the physical sciences and lead to diversification of research funding streams.
About you
You will be comfortable engaging with senior stakeholders in both academia and industry, and have experience of developing, managing or supporting collaborative research partnerships at the interface of academia and industry.
You will have education and training in a physical sciences discipline and may have experience of working in a relevant industry sector (e.g. quantum, AI/ML, semiconductors and advanced engineering, aerospace, deep tech, fintech, sustainability, advanced materials). You will have a good understanding of what it takes to bring together academic and corporate research teams, how to negotiate a contract, and how to deliver a programme of work independently.
You will have a history of solving complex problems, managing complex stakeholder relationships or consortia, and influencing without authority; as well as a willingness to think outside the box and help others to do the same.
Why join the team?
This opportunity represents a unique chance to work alongside world leaders from across all disciplines of the physical sciences and play a role in some of the most impactful research and development partnerships in the world, with significant scope to influence how the University engages with industry and supports strategic research partnerships across the physical sciences.
We are a supportive team in an excellent working environment within an exciting ecosystem. If this role appeals to you and is a great fit for your skills and experience, please get in touch.
The department policy for hybrid working is 2 days/week in the office, but it is anticipated that to deliver well in this role 3+ days are likely to be necessary much of the time. It is important for candidates to be comfortable with that level of in-person attendance.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
When applying, please upload your CV and cover letter which clearly sets out how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification (the knowledge, skills, and experience required for the role) along with relevant examples. Candidates will be shortlisted and invited to interview based upon these criteria.
Interviews will be held in person in Cambridge. There will be two rounds of interviews
MS Teams interviews: 5th or 6th November 2026
In-person interviews: 20th or 23rd November 2026
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Sarah Hull via Sarah.Hull@admin.cam.ac.uk
Questions about the application process should be addressed to the Research Office Recruitment team at crorecruitment@admin.cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference EW49198 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.