At a Glance
- Tasks: Support researchers in securing funding and developing high-quality proposals.
- Company: Leading global centre for interdisciplinary research on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive pay, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in research while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in research funding and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
London/Hybrid 3 months contract initially.
My client is a leading global centre for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to teaching and research. It brings together expertise in languages, cultures, and societies with a strong focus on addressing contemporary global challenges. With a commitment to diversity, social justice, and academic excellence, it serves as a hub for critical thinking and innovative scholarship that shapes policy and practice worldwide.
They are looking for a Research Development Officer to join them on an initial 3 months contract with the potential to extend. The position is based in London, hybrid working Monday to Friday standard office hours being office based 1-2 days a week with the remainder of time working from home.
Role Overview
The Research Development Officer will provide pre‑award research support across the institution, working closely with academic staff, Research Development Managers, Finance, and external funders. The post holder will advise on funding opportunities, support high‑quality proposal development, and ensure effective grant activation and administration.
Key Responsibilities
- Advise researchers on funding opportunities and support the development, costing, approval, and submission of research proposals.
- Provide specialist guidance on funder requirements, eligibility and costing rules.
- Prepare non‑scientific proposal sections (e.g., justification of resources).
- Coordinate proposal costing and ensure budgets receive appropriate approval.
- Liaise with Project Mobilisation and Operations teams to support smooth grant activation and HR processes.
- Act as first‑line support for Grant Management System queries and liaise with funders where needed.
- Contribute to improving pre‑award processes, systems, and workflows.
- Build effective working relationships across Research Development, Operations, Ethics, Post‑Award and wider Professional Services.
- Support Principal Investigators with local grant financial planning and compliance.
- Help promote and strengthen a positive and engaged research culture.
General Duties
- Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with institutional policies, governance, and statutory requirements.
- Contribute to strategic and operational planning within the research support function.
- Promote equality, diversity, inclusion, and health & safety standards.
Skills & Experience Required
- Experience in research funding or research support, within higher education.
- Strong understanding of research funding processes, costing, and funder terms.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, organisational, and analytical skills.
- Ability to manage competing deadlines, work independently and prioritise effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to improve processes and work collaboratively across teams.
Candidates must be able to show evidence of the above in their CV to be considered. Evidence of written work will be requested prior to your application being submitted to the business.
Please be advised if you haven't heard from us within 48 hours then unfortunately your application has not been successful on this occasion, we may however keep your details on file for any suitable future vacancies and contact you.
We use generative AI tools to support our candidate screening process. This helps us ensure a fair, consistent, and efficient experience for all applicants. Rest assured, all final decisions are made by our hiring team, and your application will be reviewed with care and attention.
Funding Manager employer: Adecco
As a leading global centre for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, our organisation is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that values difference and innovation. With a hybrid working model based in London, we offer our employees the flexibility to balance their professional and personal lives while engaging in meaningful research that addresses contemporary global challenges. We prioritise employee growth through collaborative opportunities and a supportive culture, making us an excellent employer for those seeking to make a significant impact in academia and beyond.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Funding Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the research funding world. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Funding Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in their work. Plus, it’s a great way to tailor your responses to what they’re looking for!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your experience in research funding and how it aligns with the job description. The more comfortable you are speaking about your skills, the more confident you’ll feel during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, get your application in and let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Funding Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Funding Manager role. Highlight your experience in research funding and support, and don’t forget to showcase those excellent communication and organisational skills we’re looking for!
Showcase Your Writing Skills:Since evidence of written work is required, include examples that demonstrate your ability to prepare non-scientific proposal sections or any relevant documentation. This will help us see your writing style and attention to detail.
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out your application, keep it clear and concise. We appreciate straightforwardness, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point about your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Adecco
✨Know Your Funding Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into the various funding opportunities relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with the specific funders your potential employer collaborates with and understand their requirements. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also demonstrate your proactive approach to supporting researchers.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Research Development Officer, you'll need to communicate complex information clearly. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated with academic staff or external funders in the past. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your experience effectively during the interview.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Prowess
The role requires managing multiple proposals and deadlines. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've successfully juggled competing priorities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and make your achievements stand out.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Improvement
This position involves working closely with various teams. Share examples of how you've collaborated across departments to improve processes or workflows. Highlighting your ability to foster positive relationships and drive improvements will resonate well with the interviewers.
