Research Contracts Specialist

CamWebDir; Cambridge; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Cambridge invites applications for the role of Research Contracts Specialist in the Research Office, to negotiate research contracts on behalf of the University and researchers. You will manage a portfolio of varied contracts including collaborations and data access, liaising with researchers and funders to draft, negotiate and finalise terms.

Hybrid working is supported; onsite attendance in Cambridge is expected for part of the week; you will develop negotiation and drafting

Qualifications

• Ability to understand, interpret, review, draft and negotiate contracts.
• Experience with research collaborations and funders.
• Strong organisational skills and deadline driven.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Familiarity with IP and publication considerations.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of research contracts across collaborations and grants.
• Negotiate terms with researchers and external funders.
• Draft and review contract terms ensuring risk is managed.
• Coordinate parties to finalise agreements.
• Represent the University in negotiations with funders and partners.

Skills

Contract negotiation

Intellectual property basics

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Team collaboration

Policy interpretation

Microsoft Office

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

# Research Contracts SpecialistUUniversity of CambridgeCB2 1TNvia University of CambridgePosted 8 Sep 2026Apply on cam.ac.uk →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.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:1.Be a member of an experienced contracts team2.Work within one of the most dynamic and varied research centres in the world;3.Represent the University in negotiations with a wide and varied range of funders and collaborators;4.Work with and foster close relationships with researchers who are at the forefront of scientific advancement;5.Develop negotiation and drafting skills to respond effectively to complex, and often ground-breaking, research collaborations;6.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. 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.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.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.Questions about the application process should be addressed to the Research Office Recruitment team at [e-mail] quote reference EW49288 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.