Development Officer - MPLS

University of Oxford; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious higher education institution in the UK is seeking a Development Officer to help raise funds for impactful scientific research, scholarships, and outreach projects. The ideal candidate will have experience in fundraising or business development, along with excellent communication skills, and a keen interest in how science can drive change. This permanent, full-time role offers a competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for professional development within a supportive team environment.

Benefits

38 days of annual leave

Generous family leave schemes

Hybrid and flexible working

Contributory pension scheme

Affordable commuting options

Access to social and cultural clubs

Qualifications

• Experience in fundraising, business development, alumni relations, or marketing.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Keen curiosity about scientific developments and their impact on world issues.

Responsibilities

• Create materials that articulate projects for donors.
• Manage and prioritize diverse workloads to meet deadlines.

Skills

Fundraising experience

Business development

Ability to engage and build rapport

Strong writing skills

Strategic thinking

Education

Degree or relevant qualification

Job description

About This Role

University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2JD; and MPLS Divisional Offices, 9 Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PD - but you may be able to agree a pattern of regular remote working with your line manager. From climate science and robotics, to drug discovery and surveying and conserving tropical rainforests, Oxford scientists are at the forefront of international research and their work has global impact. You'll join the country's most successful higher education Development team working closely with academics and researchers with an international reputation for excellence. You will help to raise funds for cutting‑edge, innovative and life‑changing research, scholarships, access and outreach, and a number of key capital projects. You'll also develop your skills and experience across a range of income streams: regular giving, stewardship, legacies and major gifts, including gaining experience facilitating gifts up to six figures.

You'll already have some fundraising, business development, alumni relations, or marketing experience. We're looking for you to be able to positively and confidently engage and build rapport, both in conversation and writing. You're naturally curious and keen to learn more about the potential for scientific developments impact world issues, and change people’s lives. We'd also love to see you demonstrate the following skills and qualities: think strategically and tactically about the relations between potential donors and fundraising goals.

Key Responsibilities and Skills

• Be creative in producing materials, with an understanding of how to articulate projects for donors.
• Able to manage, prioritise and adapt to a diverse workload, meet deadlines, and work calmly under pressure.

Salary & Contract

Salary: Grade 6: £35,681 – £41,636 per annum with possible extension to £45,212 – plus an Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 a year (pro‑rata).

Contract: Full Time, Permanent. Are you a creative and curious relationship builder with an interest in science and technology, and its ability to change the world?

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full‑pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full‑pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

The University of Oxford’s world‑leading Mathematical Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Development team is looking for their next aspiring fundraising professional, offering the chance to learn, grow, and hone their skills in the role of Development Officer. Offering an exceptional salary and benefits package along with unrivalled opportunities for professional development, this is a unique early‑career opportunity for a driven individual with fundraising, marketing or transferable relationship skills looking for a stimulating and nurturing learning environment.

In return for your passion and commitment, you'll receive a generous salary and benefits package, joining a supportive team that will encourage and nurture you to thrive.