Research Development Officer

About us

It’s an exciting time to join London South Bank University (LSBU) Group. Our new strategy, Connecting, is shaping the future of tertiary education for a global, technology-driven economy.

Since 1892, professional and technical education has been central to our mission. Today, as London’s first integrated tertiary education group, we lead learner-centred, skills-focused education.

Comprising of LSBU, South Bank Colleges and South Bank Academies, we help learners achieve their potential and our mission is to challenge social and economic inequalities. Our bold vision supports talent and careers, driving impact for London and beyond.

Working for us

Our ambition is to create educational pathways that empower people of all backgrounds and talents to realise their aspirations, add to knowledge, and contribute their skills to society.

To achieve this, we need people with dedication, courage and imagination, those who share our vision and values; who bring ideas that enrich learning, research and innovation; collaborative people who love creating and spreading knowledge; brilliant people who seek growth and want to make a positive difference.

At LSBU Group, you’ll join a vibrant, purpose-led, people-centred and genuinely diverse culture. You’ll be trusted and recognised for your unique contribution as part of a great team, turning passion into purpose.

The role 

London South Bank University is looking for a Research Development Officer to join our Research and Innovation Services team and help turn ambitious research ideas into competitive funding proposals. 

Working closely with academic colleagues, you will identify relevant funding opportunities, advise researchers on funder requirements, and coordinate the development, costing, approval and submission of research proposals from across LSBU’s disciplines.

Ideal candidate will have:

• A successful track record of developing and submitting research funding applications to a range of funders. 

• Practical experience of costing and pricing research activity, including a good understanding of Full Economic Costing and TRAC methodology. 

• Experience of coordinating bid-development activity, managing multiple contributions and keeping applications on track against fixed deadlines. 

• A good understanding of the UK and international research funding landscape

• The confidence to advise and work collaboratively with academics, professional services colleagues, external funders and partner institutions. 

• Experience of delivering workshops, briefings or training, with the ability to explain detailed information clearly and accessibly. 

• Strong organisational and analytical skills
• An understanding of relevant research policies and good practice

• Above all, you will be a collaborative and approachable colleague who takes pride in providing a responsive, accurate service and helping researchers turn promising ideas into fundable projects. 

Benefits and How to Apply:

As a leading Higher Education Institution LSBU offers a competitive benefits package including holiday entitlement starting at 26.5 days per annum, professional development opportunities and flexible working.

The person specification and applicant guidance are in the candidate pack; click “apply”.

The closing date: 25/11/2026

Interview/assessment: w/c 07/12/2026

We are happy to talk flexible working and reasonable adjustments and aim to make our recruitment and selection process accessible to all, please contact us to discuss any support you need. The diversity of LSBU’s staff and students is a source of our strength and the richness of ideas and perspectives that this diversity brings makes LSBU a unique place to work.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early, should we receive sufficient applications.

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