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- Tasks: Support the innovative MORE project in Open Research and metadata development.
- Company: Join the University of Manchester Library, a leader in scholarly communication.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fantastic pension scheme, health services, and generous leave entitlements.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive team environment await you.
- Why this job: Be part of a groundbreaking initiative shaping the future of Open Research.
- Qualifications: Organisational skills, strong communication, and a passion for learning are key.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you interested in Open Research, metadata, and building the future of AI-ready scholarly communication? We’re looking for an enthusiastic and highly organised Open Research Specialist to join the University of Manchester Library on a fixed term basis to play a key role in the development and delivery of our innovative MORE project. This role provides vital administrative and operational support for MORE (Manchester Open Research Environment) – a major new initiative that will position Manchester as a leader in AI-ready scholarly communication. MORE focuses on transforming Author Accepted Manuscripts (AAMs) into rich, structured, machine-readable JATS XML, and on developing enhanced metadata standards that improve discovery, interoperability, and long-term preservation.
Responsibilities
- Support the operational roll‑out of a prototype MORE service offer, working closely with Open Research Librarians and project partners across the N8.
- Contribute to the development of enhanced metadata standards, collaborating with Library metadata specialists to capture high-quality, machine-readable metadata, provenance information, and relationships between research assets.
- Provide administrative support for MORE, including documentation, workflows, communications, and engagement activities.
- Support enquiries from researchers and research administrators and help promote Open Research services across the University.
- Develop knowledge and expertise in Open Research practices, scholarly communication workflows, and AI-ready metadata.
- Contribute to training materials and participate in delivery as required.
- Work collaboratively across teams to ensure the Library’s Open Research support services are well-communicated, well-managed, and aligned with institutional priorities.
About MORE
MORE will establish Manchester as a national leader in open, standards-based scholarly communication. By creating institutional alternatives to publisher owned infrastructure, MORE strengthens the sustainability of Green Open Access and gives the University greater control over how research outputs are shaped, disseminated, and analysed. The project will:
- Develop workflows to convert AAMs into JATS XML enriched with structured metadata.
- Ensure outputs are machine-readable, interoperable, and suitable for downstream computational use.
- Build a collaborative, standards-driven model in partnership with N8 institutions.
- Support the University’s long-term strategic commitment to open, transparent, and AI-enabled research.
Who We’re Looking For
You will be a motivated and detail-oriented individual with:
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to work proactively and meet deadlines.
- Strong communication skills – written, oral, and interpersonal.
- Confidence using digital tools and learning new systems.
- The ability to use your initiative to solve day-to-day problems and support service improvement.
- A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and to providing an excellent, researcher-focused service.
- Experience with metadata, Open Research, or project support is beneficial but not essential – we welcome applicants who are eager to learn.
Why join us?
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a groundbreaking project that will shape the future of Open Research at Manchester and beyond. You’ll be part of a supportive and collaborative team, with opportunities for professional development and involvement in sector-leading innovation.
Benefits
- Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
- Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
- Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
- Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
- Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers
As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit. Our university is positive about flexible working – hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Open Research Specialist employer: The University of Manchester
Contact Detail:
The University of Manchester Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Open Research Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the Open Research Manager and the librarians you'll be meeting. Understanding their roles and how they fit into the MORE project can help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your organisational skills! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've managed projects or tasks in the past. Highlighting your ability to juggle multiple responsibilities will resonate well with the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss metadata! Brush up on your knowledge of metadata standards and Open Research practices. Even if you’re not an expert, showing enthusiasm for learning can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Prepare thoughtful questions about the MORE project and the University’s vision for Open Research. This shows you're engaged and eager to contribute to their goals. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Open Research Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your passion for Open Research and AI-ready scholarly communication shine through. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the role and how you can contribute to the MORE project.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. We’re looking for detail-oriented individuals, so be specific about how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure to proofread for any typos or grammatical errors before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Know Your Open Research
Familiarise yourself with the principles of Open Research and the specifics of the MORE project. Understand how it aims to transform Author Accepted Manuscripts into machine-readable formats and why that matters. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples that demonstrate your excellent organisational and time-management skills. Think of situations where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects, especially in a collaborative environment. This will highlight your ability to thrive in a role that requires proactive support and coordination.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Since strong communication skills are essential for this role, consider rehearsing answers to common interview questions. Be ready to discuss how you would handle enquiries from researchers and promote Open Research services effectively.
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
Even if you lack direct experience with metadata or Open Research, express your eagerness to learn and adapt. Share any relevant experiences where you quickly picked up new skills or knowledge. This will show your commitment to personal development and align with the university's values of equality and inclusion.