Research Project Manager | The Christie NHS Foundation Trust

The Christie NHS Foundation Trust; Manchester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cancer research organization in Manchester is seeking a Research Project Manager to oversee the CPOC research project. Responsibilities include managing grant applications, coordinating research efforts, and liaising with various stakeholders. The ideal candidate has experience in project management and grant writing, and strong communication skills. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in oncology.

Qualifications

• Experience in project management of multidisciplinary research programmes.
• Familiarity with ICH GCP and data protection guidelines.
• Ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Manage the grant application and submission process.
• Proofread manuscripts for submission to journals.
• Assist in developing study documentation.

Skills

Project management

Grant writing

Budgeting

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Job description

Overview

The CPOC research project manager post holder will be responsible for the smooth management of programmes of research for The Christie Colorectal and Peritoneal Oncology Academy and the production of deliverables and milestones, on time and within budget. The post holder will use specialised knowledge to advise on funding strategy, ensure deadlines for grant applications are met, work effectively across complex research organisations, take initiative where necessary, identify and breakdown tasks for a multidisciplinary research group project, and delegate and assign tasks to others. The position involves close liaison with a wide range of academic, clinical, managerial and administrative staff at The Christie NHS Trust (Christie), Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health (FBMH) at University of Manchester, and MAHSC members, as well as other academic and healthcare institutions, grant funding bodies and companies where relevant. This appointment is within the Colorectal and Peritoneal Oncology Centre and funded for 2 years. The post holder will work closely with the Consultant Surgeons within the Surgical Oncology & Anaesthetic Research (SONAR) Centre with a focus on supporting translational research projects and programmes in association with the MCRC Biobank and the research delivery team.

Responsibilities

• Manage the grant application and submission process, adhering to Faculty policies and deadlines. Provide grant writing support, devise budgets, and coordinate and submit research grant applications to local, national and international funding bodies.
• Prepare University/Christie business cases.
• Proofread and edit manuscripts, book chapters, etc., for submission to high-impact journals and publishers.
• Produce abstracts and posters for local, national and international conferences.
• Produce annual reports, business plans, and supporting documentation for University, funding bodies, ethics, R&D, NCRI, and related bodies.
• Prepare and submit ethics and regulatory applications; assist in developing study documentation (research protocols, patient information sheets, consent, questionnaires, CRFs).
• Manage finances related to academic and research projects; review financial statements with the Finance Officer and Research Support Manager.
• Organise and participate in regular research, management and finance meetings; manage agendas, minutes and dissemination.
• Assist in coordinating funding strategies and advise researchers on appropriate funding streams.
• Support postgraduate research students to initiate and undertake projects and adhere to deadlines.
• Establish and maintain research databases; implement project plans and changes to meet timelines and objectives.
• Develop relationships across complex organisations (BRC, University, NHS, MAHSC, industry, funding bodies) to deliver projects and facilitate research.
• Demonstrate negotiation and diplomacy in project management in partnership with the Principal Investigator.
• Act as the first point of contact for new project enquiries and provide timely responses.
• Secure sponsorship of research projects by liaising with the University of Manchester and NHS Trusts.
• Ensure ethical and regulatory approvals are in place before research commences and manage amendments and progress reports.
• Maintain knowledge of current research legislation and data protection; attend mandatory training (e.g., ICH GCP) as required.
• Work efficiently, professionally and flexibly; meet objectives within prescribed timescales; comply with protocols and Institute policies.
• Maintain effective communications with staff at all levels; contribute to social responsibility and sustainability agendas; maintain confidentiality in line with NHS and University requirements.

Qualifications/Experience (illustrative)

Experience in project management of multidisciplinary research programmes; grant writing and budgeting; preparation of ethics/regulatory submissions; managing research finances; coordinating with multiple stakeholders across academic, clinical and industry partners; strong communication and organisational skills; familiarity with ICH GCP and data protection guidelines.

Additional Information

The Christie is one of Europe’s leading cancer centres, based in Manchester, serving a population of 3.2 million across Greater Manchester & Cheshire. The advert closes on Monday 13 Oct 2025.