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- Tasks: Support the REF submission process with data management and administrative tasks.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford's Department of Computer Science.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, a great pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a world-class research environment while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and ability to work independently are essential.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for career growth and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 35681 - 41636 £ per year.
The REF Officer will work closely with the REF Working Group and Unit of Assessment (UoA) Lead to provide specialist administrative support for the Department of Computer Science’s submission to REF 2029. The postholder will ensure relevant information is collected, maintained and reported to deadline, and will contribute to effective administrative systems that support all aspects of the UoA submission.
The role includes managing administrative processes and planning key REF activity in line with the University timetable. It also requires data manipulation and the production of clear summaries and reports. This role is hybrid, with a mixture of on-site and remote working possible. This must be agreed with the line manager.
You will build strong working relationships with academic and professional services colleagues within the Department of Computer Science and with the MPLS divisional REF team. You will develop and maintain specialist knowledge of REF processes and procedures, and the confidence to advise senior academic colleagues on the rules and on the most appropriate and efficient way to complete REF-related tasks.
You will develop a thorough understanding of, and work effectively with University systems (for example Symplectic Elements). You will work independently, managing time and expectations, while providing a consistently high level of support. You will contribute across the various elements of REF, from collating staff data and outputs to supporting the drafting and coordination of the narrative elements of the submission.
The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.
The Department of Computer Science at Oxford is renowned for pioneering research and teaching across diverse fields, consistently ranking among the best in the world. Our commitment to innovation drives us to tackle complex technological and societal challenges.
As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing, reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
- Excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days annual leave (including public holidays) – pro rata for part time jobs
- Family leave schemes
- Cycle loan scheme and discounted public transport
Committed to equality and valuing diversity.
You will be required to upload a supporting statement and an up-to-date CV as part of your online application. Your supporting statement must clearly demonstrate how you meet each of the essential selection criteria listed in the job description. Applications that do not include a supporting statement or CV, or fail to address the criteria in sufficient detail, will not be considered.
While we recognise the value of AI tools in assisting with application preparation, submissions that are clearly AI-generated without personalisation or insight will be rejected. It is crucial that your application reflects your own experiences and understanding of the role.
The closing date for applications is midday on 30th March 2026. Interviews are expected to be held in April.
Salary (£) : Grade 6: £35,681 - £41,636 p.a. (pro-rata) with a discretionary range to £45,212 inclusive of Oxford University weighting.
REF Officer employer: Corehr
Contact Detail:
Corehr Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land REF Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former REF Officers and other staff in the Department of Computer Science. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help us make connections that could boost our chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into REF processes and the specific needs of the department. We should be ready to discuss how our skills align with their goals, showing we’re not just a good fit but the perfect match!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help us refine our answers and boost our confidence. Let’s focus on articulating our experiences clearly and how they relate to the REF Officer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, we can tailor our supporting statement to highlight how we meet the essential criteria directly.
We think you need these skills to ace REF Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: Make sure your supporting statement is personalised and directly addresses the essential selection criteria. We want to see how your unique experiences align with what we're looking for, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Skills: Highlight your administrative skills and any experience with data manipulation or reporting. We’re keen on seeing how you can contribute to our REF submission, so be specific about your past roles and achievements.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we appreciate a professional tone, don’t forget to inject a bit of your personality into your application. We want to get a sense of who you are beyond just your qualifications, so let your passion shine through!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there to make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Know Your REF Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the REF processes and procedures. Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements for the Department of Computer Science's submission to REF 2029, as this will show your commitment and readiness to contribute effectively.
✨Showcase Your Data Skills
Since the role involves data manipulation and reporting, be prepared to discuss your experience with similar tasks. Bring examples of how you've managed data in the past, especially if you've used systems like Symplectic Elements or similar tools.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your ability to build strong working relationships with academic and professional services colleagues. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others, as this is crucial for the REF Officer role.
✨Tailor Your Supporting Statement
Your supporting statement is key! Make sure it clearly addresses each of the essential selection criteria listed in the job description. Personalise it with your own experiences and insights to stand out from the crowd.