Principal Library Assistant (Publications Officer)

Are you passionate about the future of scholarly publishing? Do you want to help shape the way academic work is shared globally? We’re seeking a fixed term Principal Library Assistant (Publications Officer) to play a pivotal role in modernising our University Press. 

In this new role, you will work closely with our Open Research and Publication Practice Team to offer accessible, high-quality academic publishing opportunities. No prior library experience is required - we welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds who bring transferable skills, attention to detail and a strong interest in open access publishing. 

About the role 

You will be key to the success of our reimagined University Press, ensuring that publications (including journals, books and open educational resources) are reputable, sustainable and accessible to the global academic community. Your fixed term role will include: 

• Contributing to the development of comprehensive policies and workflows to uphold academic and ethical standards. 
• Creating user guides and training materials for authors, editors and reviewers. 
• Managing the submission, review and publication process for journals, books and open educational resources. 
• Collaborating with authors to ensure their work meets editorial and quality standards. 
• Developing and maintaining metadata and other publication data. 
• Implementing high-quality, innovative publishing practices that align with our commitment to open research. 

While familiarity with academic publishing is beneficial, full training and support will be provided. Experience of working with structured data and previous involvement in quality assurance processes is highly desirable.   

What we can offer you 

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work.   

With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.    

We offer the option for hybrid working, with at least 40% of time spent on campus. 

If you wish to discuss the role in more detail, please email Nicki Clarkson, Engagement Librarian, at nsc@soton.ac.uk

Further details:

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

This role does not qualify for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship. To explore alternative UK visa options, see gov.uk.

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