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- Tasks: Negotiate contracts and support exciting geoscientific research projects.
- Company: Join a world-renowned geoscientific research centre with a collaborative spirit.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, 30 days leave, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in groundbreaking research while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Law degree and experience in commercial contracts are essential.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and occasional travel.
The predicted salary is between 46743 - 52000 £ per year.
Contracts Partner Legal & Intellectual Property Rights Team
Grade: UKRI - Band E
Salary: £46,743 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full-time - 37 hours a week (a small amount of remote working is possible, but this role does require regular onsite attendance)
Location: BGS headquarters in Keyworth in Nottingham
Closing date: 11th February 2026
A great benefits package is offered! including an outstanding pension scheme (with a generous employer contribution - on average 27% of your pay), 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays!
About the role
BGS is an innovative and world-renowned geoscientific research centre engaged in many exciting and forward-thinking research collaborations both nationally and internationally. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced contracts manager to be involved in contractual negotiations in support of BGS's research activities.
Key duties:
- Provide expert legal knowledge to support an increase in our commercial research activity by negotiating and leading on all contracts being undertaken as part of BGS's commissioned income and collaborative research work.
- Provide legal support to facilitate major national and international geoscientific research and collaboration projects.
- Drafting "tailored" agreements to meet specific requirements for non-standard research work.
- There may be a requirement for occasional travel within the UK as required.
Essential skills:
- Law degree or other qualifications supported by relevant legal/commercial contracts experience and qualifications.
- Experience of working within a UK research institute and/or public sector body, or demonstrable experience of routinely working with/for such organisations, including experience of handling commercial contracts, dealing with complex legal and contractual processes associated with commercial tender, contract, and research agreement work; including negotiations with clients, with regard to terms and conditions under which contracted or collaborative work is to be undertaken.
- Expert knowledge of business/contract law, including all relevant legislation/regulations.
- Able to manage your own contractual casework within a high pressure, routinely time-critical legal/contractual environment. To include effectively communicating to non-legal colleagues and external organisations.
- You will be committed to a diverse and inclusive approach to work in the geosciences.
Desirable skills:
- Further relevant legal qualifications, e.g. commercial law, contract law, intellectual property rights law.
- In-depth understanding of specific legislation/regulations of particular relevance to scientific research community and public sector, e.g. Freedom of Information Act/Environmental Information Regulations; Data Protection legislation; Intellectual Property Rights.
- A solid understanding of NEC Contracts, which are routinely placed on BGS for consideration, and of licensing agreements.
The closing date for receipt of applications is Wednesday 11th February 2026. Interviews will be held Friday 27th February 2026 in Nottingham.
Contract Partner employer: British Geological Survey
Contact Detail:
British Geological Survey Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Contract Partner
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal and geoscientific fields. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching BGS and their recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role involves contractual negotiations, consider role-playing scenarios with a friend. This will help you feel more confident when discussing terms and conditions during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Contract Partner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in contracts management and legal knowledge. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on specific examples where you've successfully negotiated contracts or dealt with complex legal processes. We love seeing real-life applications of your skills, so be as detailed as possible!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we appreciate professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. A touch of authenticity can make you stand out from the crowd, so feel free to express your passion for geosciences and collaboration.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at BGS. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Geological Survey
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of contract law and the specific types of agreements relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with NEC Contracts and any recent changes in legislation that could impact the geoscientific research community.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've led or been a part of. Highlight how you navigated complex legal processes and reached successful outcomes, especially in high-pressure situations. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the demands of the role.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice explaining complex legal concepts in simple terms. You’ll need to communicate effectively with non-legal colleagues and external organisations, so being able to break down jargon will be key to showing your suitability for the position.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity
BGS values a diverse and inclusive approach, so be ready to discuss how you’ve contributed to this in your previous roles. Share any experiences that highlight your commitment to fostering an inclusive environment within the geosciences or legal field.
