At a Glance
- Tasks: Draft, review, and negotiate research contracts with global partners.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh, a world-leading institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic research environment while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Experience in research agreements and legal expertise preferred.
The predicted salary is between 41064 - 48822 £ per year.
UE07: £41,064.00 to £48,822.00 per annum. Corporate Services Group / Edinburgh Research Office. Full time: 35 hours per week. Fixed term: 12-month maternity leave cover.
The Opportunity: We are looking for an experienced research contracts specialist to play a key role in the delivery of the University of Edinburgh’s Research Contracts service. You will work closely with a team of legal experts and contracts specialists and will use your expertise to draft, review and negotiate a range of legal agreements with UK and international partners and funders supporting the University’s extensive global research portfolio. The successful candidates will embody our values of expertise, community, integrity, and collaboration.
Your skills and attributes will enable you to:
- Provide expert contract advice to academic and professional services colleagues across the University.
- Draft and review a wide range of research related contracts.
- Build relationships with colleagues across Edinburgh Research Office and with key stakeholders to ensure optimum solutions are developed to successfully resolve contracting issues and challenges.
- Progress and advise on the full range of research related agreements including, for example; funding agreements, framework agreements, collaboration agreements, research service agreements, EU agreements, clinical trial agreements, UK and international data sharing/processing agreements, material transfer agreements, non-disclosure agreements, studentship agreements.
- Provide expertise and bespoke contract advice across a wide research portfolio including UK, EU and international contracts.
Please note that this is not a procurement role.
This role would suit:
- Contract specialists with experience and knowledge of research agreements and associated legal issues – ideally in a higher education institution sector.
- Solicitors who are looking for a move in-house and the opportunity to use your legal skills in a world‑leading university for a fixed term.
- In‑house solicitors wishing to work in a dynamic contract research environment.
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, including generous annual leave entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, a wide range of staff discounts, family‑friendly initiatives, and flexible work options.
Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion. The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter, and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.
Prior to any employment commencing with the University, you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages. On this occasion the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this role. International workers will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
Key dates to note: The closing date for applications is 25 June 2026. Unless stated otherwise the closing time for applications is 11:59pm UK time.
Contracts Manager employer: The University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for Contracts Managers. With a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, employees benefit from comprehensive staff perks, including generous leave, a defined benefits pension scheme, and flexible working options. Join a vibrant international community where your expertise will contribute to groundbreaking research while enjoying opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
Contact Details:
The University of Edinburgh Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with research contracts. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past – it shows you know your stuff and can handle the role!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview. Understand the University of Edinburgh’s research portfolio and think about how your skills can contribute. Prepare questions that show your interest in their work and values – it’ll impress them!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Contracts Manager role. Highlight your experience with research agreements and any relevant legal expertise. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how you embody our values of expertise, community, integrity, and collaboration. Let us know what makes you the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to build relationships with colleagues and stakeholders. We value collaboration, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated contracting issues in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on various types of research contracts, especially those mentioned in the job description. Familiarise yourself with funding agreements, collaboration agreements, and non-disclosure agreements. This will not only show your expertise but also help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with a team of legal experts and stakeholders, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your ability to build relationships and resolve issues, as this aligns perfectly with the university's values of community and collaboration.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in contract negotiations. Think of specific situations where you had to draft or review contracts under pressure, and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The University of Edinburgh values equality and diversity, so be sure to express your commitment to these principles during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been part of that promote inclusivity, as this will resonate well with their ethos.
