Research programmes officer

We’re Breast Cancer Now, the research and support charity. We’re the place to turn to for anything and everything to do with breast cancer. The brightest minds in breast cancer research are here, making life-saving research happen in labs across the UK and Ireland. Support services, trustworthy breast cancer information and specialist nurses are here, ready to support you whenever you need it. Dedicated campaigners are here, fighting for the best possible treatment, services and care for anyone affected by breast cancer.

About the role: This is a diverse role and will offer scope to develop and lead specific projects that fulfil strategic ambitions of the research, support and influencing directorate. The main 4 areas of the role are to:

• Provide support on research management issues, and assist with the management of the long-term research programmes portfolio. This includes being responsible for delivery of scientific reviews and building relationships with our grant holders.
• Provide secretariat and governance support for the high-level scientific and advisory committees. This includes the Scientific Strategy Committee (SSC), which is responsible for making strategic recommendations to the board of trustees about Breast Cancer Now’s research portfolio, and the Biobank Advisory Council (BAC).
• Develop and deliver ad hoc grant funding schemes, organise funding committees, and be the key contact with funding partners.
• Be the key point of contact between the research and research communication teams for the delivery of research tours and scientific events.

About you: We’re looking for an experienced and dedicated person to join our team, someone who brings a strong background in scientific research and grant management. You’ll have a degree in a relevant scientific discipline or equivalent experience, with knowledge of research grants management. You’ll also be able to demonstrate independently managing and prioritising complex projects, showing an ability to navigate multiple tasks. A PhD in a relevant scientific field is desirable, as well as experience working with and supporting high-level scientific committees. Familiarity with operating databases and engaging in patient and public involvement in research would also be a plus.

In addition to your technical expertise, you should have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to foster effective working relationships with both internal teams and external stakeholders. You’ll have strong communication skills, both verbal and written, enabling you to understand complex scientific information. You’ll also be adaptable and prepared to travel occasionally for conferences and meetings. Your commitment to the values and methods of the voluntary sector, combined with your ability to quickly absorb new information and pay attention to detail, will make you a valuable asset to our organisation.

If you are passionate about advancing scientific research, have a solid understanding of the UK research funding landscape, and are ready to make an impact within a dynamic and supportive team, we would love to hear from you.

Primary location of role and hybrid working: This role is primarily based in our London office. Our hybrid working model allows you to work up to 3 days per week at home.

When applying: To support your application, you’ll be asked to submit your anonymised CV and a supporting statement. Please refer to the essential criteria on the person specification and clearly provide as much information as you can with examples, to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria.

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion: We’re committed to promoting equity, valuing diversity and creating an inclusive environment – for everyone who works for us, works with us, supports us and who we support.

Closing date: Monday 17 March 2025 at 09:00am

Interview date: Tuesday 25 March 2025 (London office)