Contracts Officer TW)

Embark on a Fulfilling Career in Research Administration at a World-Renowned University

The University of Southampton, consistently ranked among the globe's leading academic institutions, offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment. Renowned for its outward-looking and research-intensive approach, the university fosters a culture of innovation and achievement, contributing to a history of world-changing advancements. Research is at the heart of Southampton's mission, driving its cutting-edge teaching, its burgeoning spin-out companies, and the development of impactful products and services.

The Research and Innovation Services (RIS) department plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem, providing essential expertise across a spectrum of critical functions. These include guidance on research funding and contracts, ensuring research integrity and governance, facilitating technology transfer and the commercialization of intellectual property, fostering industry collaborations, and promoting public engagement with research.

We are currently seeking a dedicated Contracts Officer to join our esteemed Research Contracts team. This is a full-time, permanent position offering a significant opportunity to contribute to the university's research endeavors.

What You Will Do:

• Become an integral part of a skilled team responsible for the comprehensive drafting, review, and negotiation of research contracts for the University.
• Provide expert advice and support to academic staff throughout the crucial pre-award contract process, with a strong emphasis on systems efficiency and exceptional customer service.
• Facilitate impactful collaborations with external partners by ensuring the establishment of appropriate research agreements.
• Manage your own portfolio of contracts, taking ownership and responsibility for their successful progression.

Advantages for Your Career Path:

• World-Class Institution: Join a globally recognized university that is at the forefront of research and innovation, offering unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Impactful Work: Play a direct role in enabling groundbreaking research by ensuring the legal and contractual frameworks are robust and efficient.
• Specialized Expertise: Develop deep knowledge and experience in research contract management, a highly sought-after skill set within the higher education and research sectors.
• Collaborative Environment: Work within a supportive and experienced team, fostering a culture of shared learning and best practices.
• Career Progression: Gain valuable experience that can lead to further opportunities within research administration, legal support, or contract management roles.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: The RIS department is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, respect, and equality, valuing the contributions of individuals from all backgrounds.
• Flexible Working: The university embraces flexible working practices, including an emerging hybrid working model, aiming to provide a healthy work-life balance.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Educational Foundation: A degree-level qualification or equivalent is required.
• Essential Skills: Excellent communication skills, strong organizational abilities, adeptness at multitasking, and the capacity to thrive within a busy team environment are crucial.
• Proactive & Driven: You should be a self-starter, eager to take initiative and make things happen in a fast-paced setting.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Proven experience in a customer-focused role is essential.
• Advantageous Experience: While not mandatory, prior experience in research support within the Higher Education sector or in drafting various Research Agreements would be a significant asset.
• On-Campus Presence: For this role, candidates will need to be present on campus regularly and available for external meetings and events as required.

This permanent, full-time position offers a competitive salary ranging from £36,636 to £44,746 per annum, reflecting the importance of this role within our esteemed institution. The closing date for applications is 05 Nov 2025.

If you are a motivated professional seeking to contribute to a world-class research environment and advance your career in contract management, we encourage you to explore this exceptional opportunity.