Research Contracts Advisor

UKCEH is seeking an pragmatic and solutions-focused Research Contracts Advisor to join our small but highly skilled and dedicated Contracts and Compliance team. This team plays a critical role within the organisation, providing expert support on all research-related contractual agreements. Ensuring these agreements align with UKCEH policy, the team helps facilitate research that advances our charitable objectives and drives meaningful environmental impact.

Managing in excess of 50+ contracts, prioritising tasks, and maintaining high-quality outputs means staying adaptable and solution-focused. You’ll be joining a team which thrives on being incredibly well organised, approaching tasks in an analytical manner and with a proactive mindset.

Our team is small but mighty, built on a foundation of collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence. We look out for each other, combining kindness with a detail-oriented approach to tackle complex challenges together. While the work can be tricky, we support one another, ensuring that no one is left to navigate difficulties alone. We’re always thinking about how we can improve, questioning existing ways of working, and adding value wherever possible. Intellectual curiosity and a willingness to challenge the status quo are not just welcomed—they're encouraged.

We are an inclusive and welcoming group, where diverse perspectives are valued, and strong working relationships are essential. Sitting within the wider finance function, we work closely with both scientists and non-scientists at all levels, requiring strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively.

Main responsibilities will include: 

• Draft and finalise standard research contracts and other agreements in a timely manner, namely NDAs, MTAs, Collaboration Agreements using the Brunswick, Lambert templates, contract amendments and subcontracts
• Identify, communicate and mitigate contractual risks
• Support the team to advise on contractual issues, including intellectual property rights, to both internal staff and external stakeholders
• Ensure that UKCEH's project contracts enable future use of project results both for future scientific research and where appropriate for commercial exploitation
• Undertake due diligence checks on third party organisations and assist with the completion of due diligence requests and checks by external parties
• To keep abreast of all relevant legislation
• Delegated authority to sign contracts in line with UKCEH policy up to £250,000. 

We’re looking for somebody who has:

• Previous proven experience drafting contracts and negotiating on a range of agreement types
• Although not essential, a degree in an appropriate subject or relevant experience would be desirable, plus demonstrable legal skills and knowledge
• Experience within a research contracts environment or HEI/science research type organisations would be a strong advantage
• First-class written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively and work both independently and within a team.
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to establish close working relationships with scientists and non-scientists alike at all levels
• Strong attention to detail, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality outputs and results.
• Excellent numerical skills and proficiency in IT, including Excel, with ideally some experience in relevant contract management software.  

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