Research Contracts Advisor

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United Kingdom.

📋 Description

• Oversee and prioritize a caseload of approximately 50 research contracts

• Recognize and appropriately escalate any contractual or project-related risks

• Conduct third-party due diligence, including checks for credit, insurance, policies, and risk assessments

• Review, draft, and negotiate various research agreements, such as collaboration agreements, subcontracts, NDAs, MTAs, amendments, and studentship agreements

• Coordinate work orders for framework agreements and secure internal approvals

• Evaluate project activities, research outputs, and intellectual property in line with Trusted Research and Innovation requirements

• Work alongside scientists and professional services staff to address contractual issues and obtain necessary approvals

• Provide guidance to Tender Support colleagues regarding the contractual elements of research tenders, bids, and grant applications

• Keep precise records of contracts

• Assist with agreements throughout the signature process, project handover, close-down, and archiving

• Authorize contracts valued up to £250,000 according to UKCEH policy and delegated authority permissions

• Participate in knowledge sharing and continuous improvement initiatives within the Contracts and Compliance team

⛳️ Requirements

• Previous experience in drafting simple contracts or completing documents (including but not limited to legal documents utilizing information from various sources)

• Proven administrative and IT skills

• Familiarity with Microsoft SharePoint and Outlook, along with contract management databases and project management software

• Strong skills in workload management and prioritization

• Capability to handle diverse tasks and meet multiple deadlines

• Good judgment regarding when to escalate issues

• An investigative mindset and keen attention to detail

• Ability to identify issues or inconsistencies

• A relevant degree or comparable experience in a complex office setting is advantageous

• Understanding of scientific research, intellectual property, or the requirements of research funders is beneficial

• Experience in a legal, research contracts, or similarly complex organization is a plus

• Proficiency in using ERP or contract management systems is advantageous

• Experience managing busy shared mailboxes is a plus

• Strong analytical skills are beneficial

• Must have the ability to work in the UK; visa sponsorship is not available

🏝️ Benefits

• Generous annual leave of 27 days (increasing to 29 days after 5 years) plus 3 days for Christmas closure

• 10% employer pension contribution

• Financial protection through life assurance and income protection

• Enhanced family-friendly policies

• Flexible and hybrid working options available (subject to role requirements)

• Lifestyle perks including discounts on dental, gym, retail, and cycling

• Commitment to employee wellbeing, supported by various internal initiatives

• Employee Assistance Programme and health benefits, offering 24/7 support including remote GP access, mental health services, physiotherapy, and lifestyle services

• Peer recognition and rewards to celebrate your contributions

• Salary sacrifice agreement benefits, including Electric & Plug-in Hybrid vehicle schemes and Cycle2Work schemes

• Interest-free annual travel season ticket loans (terms apply)

• Opportunity for remote working, with the option to operate from one of our sites in Wallingford, Lancaster, Bangor, or Edinburgh

• Additional flexible working arrangements may be considered

• Career development opportunities, skills enhancement, and support in a collaborative, purpose-driven environment