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- Tasks: Lead a team supporting research funding in the School of Physical Sciences.
- Company: Join Cambridge Service Alliance, a dynamic research centre at the forefront of science.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and develop your management skills in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research and collaborate with top academics in your field.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate qualification or relevant experience in grant administration and people management required.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements available; applications from diverse backgrounds encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
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Join to apply for the Assistant Director- Physical Sciences role at Cambridge Service Alliance
The Research Office is looking an enthusiastic and motivated individual to lead our team that supports the School of Physical Sciences.
This post is responsible for the team which supports the departments in the School of Physical Sciences. The purpose of the role is to provide leadership of the administrative process and the large team of staff to support the research funding needs of the Schools. This involves heading up communication between Research Operations Office (ROO) and the Schools and constituent departments, academic and administrative staff. There is a need to ensure that the ROO is delivering services aligned with and in support of the School\’s strategic aims.
The Assistant Director is a key source of strategic advice to the School regarding the formulation of research proposals which conform to University requirements and address relevant academic and administrative criteria. A keen awareness of any changes to these requirements, and the implications of these changes, is required. The position provides strategic information, guidance and advice to academic staff and general staff.
This role will offer the successful candidate the opportunity to:
- Work within one of the most dynamic and varied research centres in the world; Work with and foster close relationships with academics that are at the forefront of their fields;
- Develop their business-relations skills, liaising with a wide range of colleagues, sponsors and collaborators, often at a senior level;
- Develop their management skills through managing a professional and dedicated team of managers and administrators;
- Be at the forefront of developments within the funded-research sector, frequently finding solutions to respond to new challenges;
We are looking for a candidate with a relevant postgraduate qualification or an undergraduate degree with an equivalent combination of relevant experience, education/training with people management experience and significant experience in complex grant administration ideally in a university or clinical research organisation.
If you are well organised and self-motivated, can demonstrate a strong service ethic and positive attitude, can thrive under pressure and take pride in meeting your own and your team\’s objectives then we would love to hear from you. Your application should clearly set out how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification (the skills and experience required for the role) along with relevant examples. Candidates will be shortlisted based on these criteria
We are supportive of hybrid working within teams for a minimum of 2-3 days per week from Greenwich House. Some roles may require additional onsite working according to business need and this is subject to discussion with the recruiting manager.
Closing Date: 14th September 2025
Interviews: 1st interview – w/c 22nd September, 2nd interview w/c 6th October 2025.
When applying, please upload your CV and cover letter which clearly sets out how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification (the knowledge, skills, and experience required for the role) along with relevant examples. Candidates will be shortlisted and invited to interview based upon these criteria.
We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working (min 80%) or other flexible working arrangements.
Click the \’Apply\’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
If you have questions about the application process, contact
Please quote reference EW46831 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Apply online
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Director
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Education Management
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Assistant Director- Physical Sciences employer: Cambridge Service Alliance
Contact Detail:
Cambridge Service Alliance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director- Physical Sciences
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and changes in research funding within the physical sciences. This knowledge will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in informed discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field, especially those who have experience in grant administration or academic leadership. Attend relevant conferences or seminars to make connections that could provide insights or even referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your management style and how you handle team dynamics. Given the emphasis on leading a large team, showcasing your leadership skills and experiences will be crucial during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Cambridge Service Alliance and its strategic aims. Understanding their mission and how the Assistant Director role aligns with it will demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment to contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director- Physical Sciences
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Assistant Director- Physical Sciences role. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, clearly outline your relevant experience in grant administration and people management. Use specific examples that demonstrate how your background aligns with the requirements listed in the person specification.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your enthusiasm for the role but also directly address how you meet the criteria outlined in the job description. Provide concrete examples of your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the position.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you upload all required documents, including your CV and cover letter, as specified in the job posting. Double-check that you have included the reference number EW46831 in your application and any correspondence.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge Service Alliance
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before your interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the Assistant Director- Physical Sciences role. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, especially around leading teams and supporting research funding needs. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with the job.
✨Prepare Relevant Examples
Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your leadership skills, grant administration expertise, and ability to work under pressure. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising between various departments and stakeholders, highlight your communication skills during the interview. Be clear and concise in your answers, and consider asking insightful questions that show your interest in collaboration and strategic advice.
✨Demonstrate Adaptability
The position requires a keen awareness of changes in research requirements. Be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to changes in previous roles and how you can apply that adaptability to meet the evolving needs of the School of Physical Sciences.
