Research Contracts Specialist
Research Contracts Specialist
We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated self-starter for the post of Research Contracts Specialist in the Research Office, to negotiate research contracts on behalf of the University and our researchers.
As a Research Contracts Specialist, you will manage a portfolio of varied research contracts, including material transfers, data access, studentships, research collaborations, large consortia, industry collaborations. You will need to take into consideration the terms of our varied funders, ranging from Research Councils, UK Government Ministries, the European Commission, charities, overseas organisations and a wide range of industry.
You will have to understand, interpret, review, draft and negotiate contract terms in an often complex context and to coordinate several parties in order to finalise an agreement.
You will have a pragmatic approach to drafting terms that facilitate the partnership between the University's researchers and external collaborators, while strategically assessing and managing risk to the University. To do this well, you will need to liaise and interact with researchers to ensure agreements are appropriate to the research context.
The role will offer the successful applicant the opportunity to:
- Be a member of an experienced contracts team
- Work within one of the most dynamic and varied research centres in the world;
- Represent the University in negotiations with a wide and varied range of funders and collaborators;
- Work with and foster close relationships with researchers who are at the forefront of scientific advancement;
- Develop negotiation and drafting skills to respond effectively to complex, and often ground-breaking, research collaborations;
- Develop a clear understanding of contractual aspects important in research, such as intellectual property and publication, within a world-renowned institution.
You will have good understanding of research-related collaborations and contracts or relevant post-doctoral experience. You will ideally have knowledge of basic intellectual property law principles, preferably gained through experience of working within research environments such as a university or a research-intensive organisation, including industry. You must be well organised and able both to prioritise and work to deadlines.
You must be able to work well independently and as part of a team and have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Diplomacy, tact, attention to detail and a calm approach are essential. You will be proficient in using Microsoft IT packages.
The University offers an excellent benefit package including: - Discounts on shopping - Rental deposit scheme - Public transport season ticket loans - Defined benefits pension schemes - Tax- efficient bicycle and charity giving schemes - Flexible working options - in addition to the base salary stated, the successful candidate for this post will receive an additional 2.5% supplement to their pay.
The University is supportive of hybrid working, where the majority of work is undertaken on University premises and some in a remote working environment. The aim of our approach is to enable as many staff as possible to work in a hybrid way if they wish and where their role allows. This arrangement is subject to change and will not form a part of the contractual terms of the role.
We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager. If you have questions about the application process, contact CROrecruitment@admin.cam.ac.uk.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role.
Please quote reference EW49288 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.
Key information
Department/location
Salary
£35,608-£46,049
Reference
EW49288
Category
Date published
31 March 2026
Closing date
19 April 2026
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