Information Security and Compliance Lead

We have an exciting opportunity to join the University of Oxford as an Information Security and Compliance Lead, supporting the development of a secure, centralised Trusted Research Environment (TRE). Are you a confident and collaborative security professional, passionate about enabling research through robust governance, assurance, and risk management? Join our dynamic team at the University of Oxford and help shape the future of research infrastructure at one of the world’s leading institutions.

Contract: Full Time, Fixed term (maternity cover, upto 12 months)

Location: Central Oxford, hybrid with anchor days in the office on Tuesday and Wednesdays

About Us

Are you ready to shape the future of world-class research? Join the University of Oxford—a globally renowned centre of excellence and innovation. Our research tackles some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from reducing carbon emissions to developing life-saving vaccines. As we transform the digital services that power this work, we’re looking for a skilled [role] to help drive this change.

At Oxford, you’ll be part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary community where your work contributes to real-world solutions and lasting global impact. If you're passionate about enabling research that changes lives, we want to hear from you.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 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 to suit your lifestyle.
• 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.

About the Role

We are looking for an Information Security and Compliance Lead to ensure the secure and compliant development of Oxford’s new Trusted Research Environment (TRE) for handling sensitive research data. As part of a small, agile team, you will work at the heart of platform governance - shaping processes that meet regulatory and data provider requirements while supporting world-leading research.

You will lead certification processes, oversee risk and audit frameworks, and collaborate with central assurance teams to deliver robust security and compliance. Your work will also ensure that users are appropriately trained and authorised, and that access controls remain effective as the TRE evolves.

About You

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following:

• Proven experience in information security management, ideally with CISSP certification or equivalent qualification or experience
• Familiarity with security standards and legislation in academic/research contexts
• A track record of responding to security incidents and overseeing risk management
• Excellent communication skills—able to convey complex security concepts to diverse stakeholders
• Strong initiative, independence, and a user-centred mindset
• An ability to navigate and work effectively within university governance structures—engaging constructively with assurance teams, researchers, and leadership to get things done in a complex environment.

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications: Tuesday, 19 May

Interviews will take place late May/ early June and will be in person in Oxford

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