Research Support Administrator

University of Northampton; Northampton; Hybrid; GBP 27,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Northampton is seeking a Research Support Officer for full-time, fixed-term work until October 2026. This role involves assisting the Dean of Research and Knowledge Exchange, providing administrative support, managing research data, and facilitating events. Ideal candidates will have strong organizational and communication skills, and a background in higher education is favorable. Flexible work options and opportunities for professional development are offered.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Track record of establishing relationships and working in fast-paced environments.
• Well organized, detail-oriented, and committed to facilitating knowledge exchange.
• Experience within a higher education setting is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Dean of Research and support daily operations of research projects.
• Provide administrative and financial support for knowledge exchange activities.
• Manage a complex workload and collaborate across teams.

Skills

Excellent communication

Organizational skills

Financial administration

Data management

Team collaboration

Education

A level/NVQ level 3 or equivalent

GCSE English Language

GCSE Maths

Job description

About the Job

Full Time - Fixed Term until 02 October 2026, or upon the return of the postholder, whichever is sooner

Interview Date: 13 January 2026

This post will assist and support the Dean of Research and Knowledge Exchange and the wider team in the day-to-day operations of the University’s research projects. The post will entail the provision of support for bidding, assistance in record keeping, project management, data collection and reporting. The post will also support events and activities developed by the team.

• Deliver customer-focused, efficient, and effective administrative and financial support to knowledge exchange activities.
• Provide a high level of data management, financial administration and organisational skills with the ability to manage a complex and varied workload, taking the initiative.
• As part of a multi-functional team, work with colleagues across the directorate according to the demands of fluctuating workloads and priorities.

We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another. With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.

Number of remote days per week: 2 (dependent on requirements).

About You

You should have a track record of establishing relationships and you will need to be an excellent communicator with experience of working in a fast-paced office environment.

The post will require you to be well organised, detail-oriented, and committed to facilitating knowledge exchange. Experience of working within a higher education setting is desirable, if this sounds like you please apply now.

Qualifications

Essential;

• Educated to A level/NVQ level 3 or equivalent, with GCSE English Language and Maths at Grade C or equivalent

Desirable;

• Good Honours degree
• Evidence of continuing professional development
• Relevant vocational/professional qualification and/or membership of a relevant professional body

Research and Knowledge Exchange

You will be joining a friendly and expanding Directorate of Research and Knowledge Exchange. This Directorate will comprise of the Research and Innovation Funding Services, Research Support, Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise team, the Graduate School and the Institutes of Public Safety and Criminal Justice and Social Impact and Innovation.

This Directorate works closely with the Faculties, Institutes and Professional Services to support and deliver the University’s research and knowledge exchange ambitions including the commercialisation of research and enterprise activities. The Directorate oversees the University’s REF and KEF submission and supports aspects of the TEF submission.

About Us

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our People

Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.

Right to work

All candidates will be required to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK during the interview process.

Due to the requirements laid out by UK Visas and Immigration regarding Right to Work in the UK, the University can only accept applications from individuals who currently have a status allowing them to work in the UK for this position. Due to this criteria, we regret that we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time.

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.

The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON

Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include

1. Creating an Inclusive Environment:Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
2. Supporting Students and Staff:Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.
3. Tackling Inequalities:Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON’s Major Commitments

• Disability Confident
• Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

For more details, visit Equality and Diversity at UON