Research Contracts Specialist

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated self-starter for the post of Research Contracts Specialist in the Research Office, to negotiate research contracts on behalf of the University and our researchers.

As a Research Contracts Specialist, you will manage a portfolio of varied research contracts, including material transfers, data access, studentships, research collaborations, large consortia, industry collaborations. You will need to take into consideration the terms of our varied funders, ranging from Research Councils, UK Government Ministries, the European Commission, charities, overseas organisations and a wide range of industry.

You will have to understand, interpret, review, draft and negotiate contract terms in an often complex context and to coordinate several parties in order to finalise an agreement.

You will have a pragmatic approach to drafting terms that facilitate the partnership between the University's researchers and external collaborators, while strategically assessing and managing risk to the University. To do this well, you will need to liaise and interact with researchers to ensure agreements are appropriate to the research context.

The role will offer the successful applicant the opportunity to:

1. Be a member of an experienced contracts team 
2. Work within one of the most dynamic and varied research centres in the world;
3. Represent the University in negotiations with a wide and varied range of funders and collaborators;
4. Work with and foster close relationships with researchers who are at the forefront of scientific advancement;
5. Develop negotiation and drafting skills to respond effectively to complex, and often ground-breaking, research collaborations;
6. Develop a clear understanding of contractual aspects important in research, such as intellectual property and publication, within a world-renowned institution.

You will have good understanding of research-related collaborations and contracts. You will ideally have knowledge of intellectual property principles, preferably gained through experience of working within research environments such as a university or a research-intensive organisation, including industry. You must be well organised and able both to prioritise and work to deadlines. You must be able to work well independently and as part of a team and have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Diplomacy, tact, attention to detail and a calm approach are essential. You will be proficient in using Microsoft IT packages. 

We aim to support hybrid working, whilst retaining the positive aspects of our unique in-person environment and culture. Elements of this role are suitable for hybrid working, where staff can split their time between in-person collaboration and remote working. This role requires onsite attendance in Cambridge for a minimum of two days per week. This arrangement is subject to change and will not form a part of the contractual terms of the role. Please note this role is full-time only. 

Please see the Further Particulars document for more details of this vacancy. Your application should clearly set out how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification (the skills and experience required for the role) along with relevant examples. Candidates will be shortlisted based on these criteria.  

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

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

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

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