University of Cambridge
Research Contracts Specialist
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Research Contracts Specialist
We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated self-starters for the post of Research Contracts Specialist in the Research Office, to negotiate research contracts on behalf of the University and our researchers. Multiple posts are available.
Role Overview
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.
Opportunities
The role will offer the successful applicant the opportunity to:
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
- 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.
Requirements
You will have good understanding of research-related collaborations and contracts. You will ideally have knowledge of intellectual property 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.
Working Arrangement
We aim to support hybrid working, whilst retaining the positive aspects of our unique in-person environment and culture. Elements of this role are suitable for hybrid working, where staff can split their time between in-person collaboration and remote working. This role requires onsite attendance in Cambridge for a minimum of two days per week. This arrangement is subject to change and will not form a part of the contractual terms of the role. Please note this role is full-time only.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Application
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.
Questions about the application process should be addressed to the Research Office Recruitment team at crorecruitment@admin.cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference EW44529 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
Eligibility
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills