At a Glance
- Tasks: Support operations and communications at a cutting-edge research centre focused on sustainable fungi solutions.
- Company: Join the Magan Centre of Applied Mycology, a leader in innovative research.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Be part of a growing team dedicated to addressing global challenges through mycology.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainability while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in admin support, strong communication skills, and event coordination.
The predicted salary is between 28350 - 34650 £ per year.
We welcome applications from passionate, skilled, committed applicants to join an exciting growing research centre and play a key role in supporting its operations, engagement and communications as it explores the potential of fungi to help create a more sustainable future.
About the Role
As Engagement and Support Officer, you will provide a varied mix of operational, administrative and communications support to the Magan Centre of Applied Mycology. Working closely with the Project Manager and academics, as well as research and technical colleagues, you will help coordinate the Centre’s day-to-day activities, events, visits and outreach, maintain accurate records, and gather information to support reporting to funders and other stakeholders. You will also contribute to promoting the Centre’s research, collaborations and achievements through its website, social media, blogs, newsletters and other communication channels, working with colleagues across the University to ensure engaging and accurate content reaches a wide range of audiences.
About You
You will have experience of providing operational and administrative support in a busy environment, with excellent organisational and time management skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities. You will be a confident communicator, with experience of producing clear and engaging written content for a range of audiences and have strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy. You will be comfortable working independently, using initiative and judgement within established procedures, while also building effective working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders. Experience of coordinating events, meetings or visits, maintaining records and using Microsoft Office and other digital systems is essential. Experience of working within Higher Education or a research environment, supporting externally funded projects, or updating websites and social media would be advantageous.
About Us
The Magan Centre of Applied Mycology (MCAM) is a growing multidisciplinary research centre established through a £7.2 million award from Research England’s Expanding Excellence in England fund. The Centre brings together academics, research, technical and professional services expertise to unlock the potential of fungi in addressing some of society’s most significant environmental, industrial and food security challenges. MCAM's research spans six interconnected areas: Fungal Biomaterials, Fungal-based Bioenergy, Sustainable Biomanufacturing, Indoor and Environmental Mycology, Sustainable Mycoremediation and Sustainable Food Production. Through research, innovation and knowledge exchange, the Centre works with academic, industrial and governmental partners to develop solutions that can contribute to a more sustainable future. This is an exciting opportunity to join MCAM at an important stage in its development and contribute to the effective operation, visibility and continued growth of the Centre.
Our Values and Commitments
Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families.
Working Arrangements
Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.
Closing date for receipt of applications: 18 October 2026
Interviews to be held: 4 November 2026
Deadline to fill the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion complementary survey: 22 October 2026 (This is mandatory but does not form part of the selection process, the surveys will not be shared with the recruiting manager or shortlisting panel)
Engagement and Support Officer for the Magan Centre of Applied Mycology in Cranfield employer: Cranfield University
Cranfield University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant research environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of sustainable energy. With a commitment to employee development, you will have access to cutting-edge resources and mentorship opportunities within the Hydrogen Integration Incubator, making it an ideal place for aspiring researchers to thrive and contribute to meaningful advancements in carbon-free technology.
