Research Development Advisor

Contracts available:

1 x Permanent

1 x Fixed Term- 12-months Maternity Cover or the return of the post holder

The Research Office welcomes applications for Research Development Advisors to join the Cambridge Research Office.

As part of established teams, the post-holders will provide research support to drive high-quality funding applications. Working closely with colleagues across the respective Schools, you will support researchers and their departments in the preparation, costing and review of research bids, with significant focus on costing and compliance. You will provide advice and guidance on operational aspects of grant applications, including applicant eligibility, adherence to funding body rules and accurate costing. You will identify any discrepancies between applications and costing, working with Departmental staff and PIs to resolve them before the funder deadline. You will identify and help mitigate risk, ensure compliance with University and funder policies, submit research grants, and liaise with external parties as appropriate.

Key skills and attributes required for this role include strong numerical and communication skills and attention to detail. Excellent organisational skills, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively at all levels, to build networks and effective working relationships are essential. To thrive in this fast-paced and deadline-driven operational role, you need to be able to work independently, with the ability to prioritise workloads in addition to managing deadlines.

Prior knowledge and experience of research support activities in Higher Education would be advantageous but is not essential, as full training will be provided.

The successful applicants will develop a deep understanding of the administrative support required across a complex research landscape. You will be supported to take on varied responsibilities alongside the core requirements of the role, including assisting the Research Development Manager with the delivery of a staff development programme for both Departmental and Research Office staff.

The University is supportive of hybrid working. However, this role requires onsite attendance for a minimum of two days per week, further details of which should be discussed with the recruiting manager during interview.

There are two roles available, one permanent position, the other to cover maternity leave; time limited to 12 months or until the current post-holder returns.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click 'Apply' above.

Please see the Further Particulars document for more details. Your application should clearly state how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification, along with relevant examples. Candidates will be shortlisted based on this.

Please include full details of your referees, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

The closing date is Sunday 13th September 2026.

Questions about the application process should be addressed to the Recruitment team at crorecruitment@admin.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference EW50881 on your application and in any correspondence.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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