At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Legal Team with contract management and legal documentation.
- Company: Genomics England, a leader in genomic medicine and research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30 days holiday, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with exposure to innovative projects in healthcare.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team transforming healthcare through genomics.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Paralegal or in a similar legal support role.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
Genomics England is a global leader in enabling genomic medicine and research, focused on creating a world where everyone benefits from genomic healthcare. Building on the 100,000 Genomes Project, we support the NHS’s world-first national whole genome sequencing service and run the growing National Genomic Research Library, alongside delivering numerous major genomics initiatives. By connecting research and clinical care at national scale, we enable immediate healthcare benefits and advances for the future.
Our mission is to provide the evidence and digital systems so that by 2035 genomics could play a role in up to half of all healthcare interactions, whilst securing the UK’s position as the best place to discover, prove and benefit from genomic innovations. We are accelerating our impact and working with patients, doctors, scientists, government and industry to improve genomic testing, and help researchers access the health data and technology they need to make new medical discoveries and create more effective, targeted medicines for everybody.
We are seeking a proactive Paralegal to keep the Legal Team running smoothly, taking the lead on administrative and operational tasks while serving as the first point of contact through the shared Legal inbox, managing, triaging, and escalating queries efficiently. This role will work closely with Commercial Procurement and the Information Governance team to support collaborative legal and compliance matters. You will assist with reviewing standard contracts, maintaining legal systems and registers, and coordinating legal documents and logs, while ensuring contract management information is accurate across the commercial lifecycle. Additionally, you will prepare execution‑ready documents and manage the deployment of electronic signature tools such as DocuSign.
This is an excellent opportunity to gain exposure to a wide range of Genomics England projects and programmes while actively promoting legal best practices across the organisation.
Responsibilities- Coordinate key meetings by scheduling sessions, preparing agendas, and producing accurate minutes.
- Maintain legal data, information and reporting across the commercial lifecycle.
- Manage legal documentation by coordinating registers, inboxes, and logs (e.g., Contract Register, Legal Inbox, HighQ).
- Support contract work by reviewing standard contracts (such as NDAs, Services Agreements and other types of commercial and/or research contract) and assisting with self‑service legal tools.
- Provide support to internal clients on the management of contracts post‑execution.
- Oversee contract execution by preparing execution‑ready documents and managing electronic signatures (e.g. DocuSign).
- Collaborate across the organisation by working with Commercial Procurement, Information Governance, and the Ethics and Data Protection group on relevant matters while promoting legal best practice.
- Provide legal updates and insights by monitoring legal literature, conducting bespoke research, and building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Experience as a Paralegal or similar legal support role, with hands‑on involvement in contract review and management, legal documentation, research, and supporting the operations of a legal team.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in all aspects of legal work.
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
- Confidence using contract management systems and preparing documents for signature.
- Good understanding of basic contract law.
- Familiarity with legal AI tools.
- Comfortable adapting to change and working in a flexible environment.
- Awareness of public procurement processes.
- Awareness of basic data protection principles.
- Experience managing company‑wide legal projects or workflows.
- Skilled in reviewing and updating legal precedents.
- Interest in the healthcare or life sciences sectors.
- Previous paralegal experience, ideally supporting an in‑house legal team, commercial legal function or law firm.
- Law degree or equivalent legal qualification, training or experience demonstrating a sound understanding of core legal principles.
Salary from: £40,000
BenefitsGenerous Leave: 30 days holiday plus
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal (we have office locations in Cambridge, Leeds & London)
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Genomics England, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Paralegal (we have office locations in Cambridge, Leeds & London)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Genomics England, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Genomics England and the specific role of Paralegal (we have office locations in Cambridge, Leeds & London). Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Genomics England’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Genomics England
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Genomics England.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Genomics England.
