Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in managing research contracts and building partnerships.
- Company: Join a dynamic research institute focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, 25 days leave, gym membership, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Supportive environment with training opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in research while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant field and experience in drafting research contracts.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Embedded within the Business Development team, an integral part of the Research and Innovation department, the Research Contract Manager will act as a maternity cover within the Knowledge Exchange and Commercialisation (KEC) team. The postholder will line manage a small team of research contracts professionals, comprising administrators and a Research Contracts specialist, and will oversee daily operations of the full breadth of research and knowledge exchange contracts, including drafting and negotiating, and supporting positive relationships with industrial and other partners. The postholder will be a key contact to provide advice and support to researchers and other internal stakeholders on all matters related to contracts. The postholder will also play a key role in training newer members of the team.
We pride ourselves on our collaborative and agile approach, with a strong focus on delivering a high standard of service to our internal stakeholders. The Institute has a strong culture of supporting the professional development of employees, and all team members are actively supported through appropriate training and development opportunities where gaps in skills or knowledge are identified.
Main duties and responsibility:
- Management and leadership, which will include:
- Managing the operations related to research contracts, including identifying opportunities for optimisation and efficiency within a busy team environment.
- Building effective relationships, to work collaboratively and share pertinent information with internal stakeholders such as the Grants Administration and Finance teams.
- Coordinating internal reporting on contracts.
- Managing and providing training and mentoring as needed to a small team of contracts professionals, ensuring client‑focussed service delivery and communicating effectively with other teams.
- Leading on drafting, reviewing and negotiating all types of research contracts, including advising other team members on contract negotiations.
- Advising researchers and other internal stakeholders on contractual strategies and risks.
- Maintaining and updating as necessary contract templates, and ensuring templates are used correctly.
- Ensuring contracts are recorded and tracked in the appropriate software.
- Keeping up to date with changes in legal and regulatory frameworks affecting research agreements and ensuring contracts align with such requirements and Institute policies.
- Maintaining existing, and building new, relationships with industry and other strategic partners to enable effective contract negotiations.
This job description is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. The jobholder will carry out any other duties as may be reasonably required by his/her line manager. The job description and personal specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of The Pirbright Institute.
Personal specification:
- The ability to form effective professional relationships, both within the organisation and externally.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- An ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
- Proactive and adaptable solution‑oriented approach.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- An understanding of the use and value of databases and data, and how it may be interpreted in reporting.
Specific requirements:
- Educated to degree level in a relevant discipline.
- Proven experience of drafting and negotiating research contracts within the science sector.
- Solid understanding of relevant contract requirements for research organisations and charities.
- An understanding of compliance requirements.
- Experience working in a research organisation, university or similar public body.
- The ability to grasp the context and understand the background of research projects in order to best advise on contract management and provide support for engaging with partners.
Due to the nature of the work carried out by Pirbright, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.
What we offer:
- Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings).
- 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus public and privilege days.
- Buy and sell annual leave.
- Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave.
- Pirbright gym with membership.
- Pirbright social club.
- Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site).
Research Contracts Manager in Surrey employer: The Pirbright Institute
Contact Detail:
The Pirbright Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Contracts Manager in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the research and innovation field. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential colleagues or partners. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the organisation thoroughly, especially their approach to research contracts and partnerships. Think about how your experience aligns with their needs and be ready to discuss specific examples of your past work.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you have a portfolio or examples of contracts you've worked on, bring them along to interviews. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also gives you a chance to discuss your thought process and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a simple gesture that keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Contracts Manager in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with research contracts. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since this role involves managing a small team, it’s important to demonstrate your leadership and collaborative skills. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others or led a team in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pirbright Institute
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of research contracts, especially those relevant to the science sector. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of contracts you've drafted or negotiated, and how you navigated any challenges that arose.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a small team, be ready to share your experiences in leadership. Talk about how you've mentored others, managed competing priorities, and fostered a collaborative environment. Highlight any training initiatives you've led.
✨Build Relationships with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to form effective professional relationships. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with internal teams like Grants Administration and Finance, and how you’ve maintained relationships with industry partners.
✨Stay Updated on Compliance and Regulations
Familiarise yourself with compliance requirements such as Trusted Research and Innovation and the Nagoya Protocol. Be ready to discuss how you ensure contracts align with these regulations and how you keep up with changes in legal frameworks affecting research agreements.