Research Contracts Associate

University of Oxford; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

38 days annual leave

Family leave scheme

Hybrid/flexible working

Pension scheme

Cycle loan

Discounted travel

Social clubs

Job summary

The University of Oxford's Research Services Department provides expert advice and comprehensive administrative support across the entire research lifecycle. The team negotiates and manages research contracts, partnering with researchers and professional services to enable high-impact work.

Joining this dynamic group offers the chance to contribute to a leading research institution while operating in a flexible hybrid environment, with focus on integrity, collaboration and service excellence.

Qualifications

• A relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent experience.
• Understanding of the research environment in the higher education sector.
• Customer-focused approach.
• Excellent time management and ability to prioritise a heavy, varied workload, meet tight deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and proactively.
• Ability to identify contractual issues and problem solve.
• Attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate and manage a portfolio of research contracts across the full lifecycle.
• Learn from senior colleagues in the team and apply University policy and processes.
• Support Research Contract Leads and Research Contract Managers on more complex matters.
• Establish and maintain relationships with researchers, department admins and external sponsors.
• Contribute to streamlining confidentiality agreement reviews and implementation.

Skills

Customer focus

Time management

Independent work

Problem solving

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

Undergraduate degree or equivalent experience

Job description

The Research Services Department plays a vital role in supporting the University's world-leading research community. Working across all divisions, the department provides expert advice and comprehensive administrative support throughout the entire research lifecycle - from identifying funding opportunities and developing grant proposals to managing awards, contracts, and compliance. With a focus on fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence, Research Services ensures that Oxford's researchers have the resources and guidance they need to deliver impactful research that advances knowledge and benefits society. Joining the department means contributing to a dynamic, professional team that underpins the success of one of the world's foremost research institutions. The department's work is guided by a set of core values that reflect its commitment to integrity, professionalism, and service. Research Services values collaboration and open communication, recognising that the best outcomes arise from strong partnerships within and beyond the University. The team strives for excellence in everything it does, delivering high-quality, transparent, and responsive support to researchers. Inclusivity, respect, and continuous improvement are central to its culture - ensuring that all staff are empowered to contribute, develop, and innovate in a supportive and forward-thinking environment. The research contracts function within the Research, Funding and Contracts team reviews, negotiates and drafts research contracts through the full lifecycle of research projects and across all academic disciplines in the University, working with researchers and administrative staff to facilitate ground-breaking research., The postholder will be part of a larger team supporting research across all divisions and departments of the University. Alongside a thorough induction training program, the postholder will initially spend time learning from senior colleagues in then team. Once the postholder has acquired sufficient experience and knowledge of the University policy, practice and process in this area, they will take responsibility for negotiating and managing a portfolio of contracts, under the direction and with the support of a senior colleague. In addition, the postholder will assist the work of Research Contract Leads and Research Contract Managers on more complex matters. The post-holder will be responsible for managing a pipeline of contracts and establishing and maintaining good working relationships with researchers, department administrators and professional services colleagues, other universities and external sponsors in order to provide the highest level of service to the University's research ambitions. The team is developing a process for streamlining review of confidentiality agreements and this position will pay a pivotal role in shaping and implementing this.

You will have:

• a relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent experience
• an understanding of the research environment in the higher education sector.
• a customer-focused approach
• excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritise a heavy and varied workload, work quickly and meet tight deadlines
• the ability to work independently and proactively
• the ability to identify contractual issues and problem solve
• attention to detail
• excellent communication, inter-personal skills utilising a range of communication styles as appropriate to the context and desired outcomes.

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires," the University of Oxford has been ranked the world's leading university for nine consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you'll contribute to ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations.

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 5 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.
• 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.