Research Development Officer – Academic Services – 47384 – Grade 7

Job title:

Research Development Officer – Academic Services – 47384 – Grade 7

Company:

University of Birmingham

Job description

Job Description:Position DetailsAcademic ServicesLocation: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UKFull time starting salary is normally in the range £35,880 to £45,163 with potential progression once in post to £47,874Grade: 7Full Time, PermanentClosing date: 29th October 2024BackgroundThe University has an exciting vision to build on the success of REF2021, by continuing to transform its research performance across outputs, income, impact, and policy influence. Central to this ambition is the Research Strategy & Services Division (RSSD), a new Professional Services department that is being established to provide a transformative and sector-leading approach to research strategy and support. The RSSD brings together into one connected eco-system professional staff that work within and across the following teams: Research Strategy & Development; Research Support (Grants & Contracts); Research Partnerships, Research Impact & Innovation; Research Policy & Environment; Research Systems & Data; Research Governance; Research Communications; Legal & Regulatory Compliance and Research Finance Accounting. An overview of the RSSD is provided in the organogram below.Role SummaryReporting to a Research Support Manager and part of a vibrant team of Research Development Officers (RDO), you will play a crucial role in supporting researchers within the Colleges of Life & Environmental Sciences and Engineering & Physical Sciences in delivering grants and research contracts support. Joining our College Hub Research Support Team, you will have the opportunity to work alongside other experienced professionals and receive comprehensive training in competitive bid development, budgeting, and contract support. With you contracts knowledge, you will provide specialist advice on aspects of research funder terms and conditions, negotiation of agreements related to grants and industry contracts, as well as becoming experienced in undertaking costing/pricing for those contracts, due diligence of external partners and the setting up of projects to provide effective pre-to-post award handover.Main Duties

• Work as part of our Research Support (Grants & Contracts) Team, primarily focusing on providing contracts support for research projects.
• Provide expert guidance and support in the negotiation and management of research contracts, ensuring compliance with funder terms and university policies.
• Collaborate closely with research support colleagues to develop comprehensive proposals and budgets, delivering high-quality support to academics.
• Reviewing and advising on reputational and/or financial risks, including potential mitigations, and escalating as required, working within the RSSD Standard Operating Procedures.
• Liaise with external partners and stakeholders to facilitate smooth contract negotiations and project setup.
• Work collaboratively with post-award colleagues to ensure effective handover and seamless project management.
• Deliver exceptional customer service to researchers, offering tailored support and guidance throughout the research lifecycle, working symbiotically with RSSD and wider Professional Services colleagues across a research project life-cycle.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of research support processes and practices, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Any other duties commensurate with the grade.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience

• Experience of working successfully in a research support, regulatory, or contracts environment, or relevant legal training.
• Demonstrated ability to provide high-quality customer service, with a focus on meeting the needs of researchers.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively manage a client-facing portfolio.
• Knowledge of research contracts and funding regulations, with the ability to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, fostering positive working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Ability to analyse, interpret and respond to detailed written documentation.

Role contextRoles at this level will require a broad understanding and practical experience of an administrative or professional field which will be used to plan the running and development of services and/or lead shorter term projects or contribute to larger projects. You will work with information which needs interpretation and analysis; you will use your judgement to identify the best solution to differing problems and issues, offering recommendations for managing more complex situations. You are likely to be responsible for leading complex projects and processes that will include the management and co-ordination of internal and external partners/collaborators. You will need to liaise and/or co-ordinate activities across a number of different sections within the department or possibly with wider department or external bodies as appropriate.Core competencies/transferable skillsWorking at this level you will be able to develop and successfully demonstrate the core competencies/transferable skills outlined in each of the areas shown below. As appropriate for the level, our Birmingham Professionals will take ownership for getting things done. You will be expected to be flexible as required in supporting your department and wider University.Informal enquiries to Chris BradleyView our staff values and behavioursWe believe there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone .

Expected salary

£35880 – 45163 per year

Location

United Kingdom

Job date

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 00:48:36 GMT

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