Research Development Officer

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,130 to £45,413 with potential progression once in post to £48,149 

Are you passionate about supporting world-class research? Do you thrive in a collaborative environment where you can make a real impact? We are seeking a proactive and knowledgeable Research Development Officer (RDO) to join our Research Support Team at the University of Birmingham.

About the Role

As an RDO, you will provide expert support to researchers within designated Schools, enabling our academics to deliver world-leading research across our five Colleges. You will play a crucial role in securing external research funding, negotiating agreements, and managing risk throughout our research portfolio.

This role provides an opportunity to work across key research funding streams, including UKRI, research charities, and the EU, with plenty of opportunities to support your continued professional development. The University is well-positioned to expand its research funding landscape, and this role will help researchers capitalise on these opportunities.

You will be based on our beautiful, historic campus, working as part of a friendly and supportive team that is committed to fostering a dynamic research environment. Reporting to a Research Support Manager, you will collaborate with colleagues across the University to provide specialist guidance to our academic researchers.

Main Duties

This role is structured around three key objectives:

• Funding Support: Guide researchers in securing external research grants by advising on funder terms and conditions, proposal development, compliance requirements, and financial regulations.
• Agreements & Risk Management: Lead on the negotiation of research agreements, conduct due diligence on external partners and funders, and advise on risk mitigation strategies.
• Collaboration & Development: Work closely with internal and external partners on funding bids and contribute to training workshops, peer review sessions, and research development initiatives.

Culture

We are committed to supporting your professional development. As part of our team, you will have access to extensive training opportunities, mentorship, and career progression pathways. Our inclusive and supportive culture is built on the University’s commitment to fostering a thriving research environment, promoting collaboration, integrity, and sustainability. We champion well-being through initiatives such as well-being ambassadors and the Green Impact agenda, and we actively support a diverse and inclusive community where all colleagues can excel.

Person Specification

• Experience in research development, grant administration, or research management, with knowledge of UKRI, Charities, and EU funding landscapes.
• Strong analytical, organisational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with experience of working collaboratively across teams.
• Proficiency in IT systems, including Microsoft Office and research management platforms such as WorkTribe.

If you are excited by the opportunity to support research excellence at the University of Birmingham, we would love to hear from you!

Informal enquiries can be made to Sam Hickman, Head of Research Operations, email: s.j.hickman@bham.ac.uk

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

Closes: 14/04/2025

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