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- Tasks: Support REF submissions across two Schools, managing data and guiding teams.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Cambridge, a leader in research and education.
- Benefits: Fixed-term role with opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in higher education administration at a world-renowned institution.
- Qualifications: Experience in administration or project management, strong communication skills, and IT proficiency.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
The University of Cambridge is a world-leading institution renowned for excellence in research, education, and scholarship. With over 14,000 staff, we are committed to creating an inclusive, dynamic workplace that enables our people to thrive.
As the Higher Education sector prepares for REF2029, the role of AHSS Senior REF UoA Administrator offers an exceptional opportunity to shape submissions from Units of Assessment (UoA) across two of the University’s six Schools — the School of Arts and Humanities and the School of the Humanities and Social Sciences (AHSS).
As an experienced administrator, you will work closely with REF academic leads to deliver expert administrative support for the AHSS submission, supporting 17 UoAs across the two Schools. You will serve as Secretary to allocated UoA Committees and work collaboratively with departments, School offices, and central University bodies. You will manage data, provide guidance on REF policies and procedures, and maintain auditable confidential records. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the REF return for allocated UoAs, regularly reporting progress to support School-level project planning.
As AHSS Senior REF UoA Administrator, you will support the AHSS REF lead (AHSS Research Strategy Manager) in team coordination and project planning across over 20 departments and 1000+ researchers. The role will line manage two REF UoA Administrators and two REF Support Administrators.
About You
You will excel at supporting planning and prioritisation of work across the Schools’ 17 UoAs, adapting to emerging challenges and supporting team management and development. You will be equally comfortable working independently and as part of collaborative teams. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an ambitious professional looking to advance their career in higher education administration.
Essential Experience And Skills
- Administrative or project management experience in a higher education or similarly complex environment;
- Knowledge of, or ability to learn about, REF2029 and University policies and procedures;
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
- Advanced IT and data skills and knowledge of, or ability to learn, REF-related systems;
- Collaborative, flexible, proactive approach to work tasks and to supporting leadership of the team.
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the success of a leading academic institution, working at the heart of vibrant and intellectually stimulating Schools. If you have a strong commitment to the academic mission of the University and to the development of a collaborative and delivery-focused team, we would like to hear from you.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 March 2029 in the first instance. Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.
Closing date for all applications is Sunday 1 March 2026, with interviews planned for the week of 16 March 2026.
Informal enquiries about the role are welcomed and should be directed to Dr Andrea Salter, AHSS Research Strategy Manager, Email: Andrea.Salter@admin.cam.ac.uk. If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Karin Kuchta, HR Coordinator, Email: acdhr@admin.cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference AK48755 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
AHSS Senior REF UoA Administrator (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land AHSS Senior REF UoA Administrator (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Cambridge on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help us stand out in the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the REF2029 process. Understanding the ins and outs of this will show our commitment and knowledge, making us a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our communication skills! Since this role requires excellent interpersonal abilities, we should rehearse common interview questions with a friend to boost our confidence and clarity.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team at the University of Cambridge.
We think you need these skills to ace AHSS Senior REF UoA Administrator (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of AHSS Senior REF UoA Administrator. Highlight your administrative or project management experience in higher education, and don’t forget to showcase your communication and data skills!
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 your experience aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Follow Application Instructions: Pay close attention to the application instructions. Make sure to upload only your CV and cover letter, as additional documents won’t be considered. We want to keep things simple and straightforward for you!
Reach Out with Questions: If you have any questions about the role or the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out! Contact Dr Andrea Salter or Karin Kuchta for any informal enquiries. We’re here to help you through the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your REF Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of REF2029 and its implications for the University. Familiarise yourself with the specific Units of Assessment (UoAs) you'll be working with, as well as the policies and procedures related to REF submissions. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
Prepare examples from your past experience that highlight your administrative or project management skills in a higher education setting. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed data, coordinated projects, or supported teams in complex environments. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the AHSS Senior REF UoA Administrator.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Flexibility
The role requires a collaborative approach, so be prepared to talk about times when you've worked effectively within a team. Highlight your ability to adapt to changing circumstances and support leadership. This will show that you're not just a lone wolf but someone who thrives in a dynamic environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the University’s goals for REF2029. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with your interviewers on a deeper level.
