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- Tasks: Negotiate agreements and protect researchers' interests while collaborating with the academic community.
- Company: Join a leading university's Research Office with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in research by facilitating partnerships and protecting intellectual property.
- Qualifications: Experience in drafting agreements and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a supportive and inclusive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated self-starters for the position of Contracts Manager in the Research Office. The Research Office works in partnership with the University's academic community to support its excellent research. The post holder will act on behalf of the researcher and the University to negotiate agreements ranging from material transfers to multi-party research collaborations, funded by a range of sponsors including Research Councils, charities, the European Commission and a wide range of industrial sponsors.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure both the researchers' and the University's interests are protected by agreeing terms that safeguard both the researchers' need to publish results and pursue further research and the University's charitable and academic position.
- Consider protection of results for potential commercialisation and appropriate access to intellectual property rights for sponsor and collaborators.
- Draft terms that facilitate the partnership between the University's academic community and research collaborators, whilst assessing and managing inherent risks.
- Liaise and interact with researchers to ensure agreements are appropriate to the research context.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Extensive experience drafting and negotiating agreements through work in a university or a research-intensive organisation, including industry.
- Project management experience and a legal and/or Higher Education background would be an advantage.
- Understanding of the research environment would also be desirable.
- Ability to prioritise and work to deadlines, both independently and in a team, with a positive, can-do approach.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with an aptitude for developing positive working relationships, and the ability to communicate complex issues clearly and concisely to a wide range of people, including the highest levels of academic, corporate and government representatives.
- Diplomacy, tact, attention to detail and a calm approach are essential.
- Proficiency in using Microsoft IT packages.
- Educated to degree level or equivalent.
Application Information
- Closing Date: 12th February 2026
- The University is supportive of hybrid working, where some work is undertaken on University premises and some in a remote working environment. The role requires onsite attendance at Greenwich House for a minimum of 2 days per week with additional onsite working according to business need.
- We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working (min 85%) or other flexible working arrangements.
- Click the ‘Apply’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online. Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role.
- If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
- Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
- If you have questions about the application process, contact CROrecruitment@admin.cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference EW48499 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
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.
Contracts Manager in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the academic and research sectors. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to get your name out there. You never know who might have a lead on a Contracts Manager role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the university's recent projects and collaborations. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in their work. Plus, it’ll give you some great talking points!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Contracts Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in drafting and negotiating agreements in your cover letter.
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Covering Letter: Make sure your covering letter is personalised for the Contracts Manager role. Highlight how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. We want to see your enthusiasm and motivation shine through!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your CV, focus on your extensive experience in drafting and negotiating agreements. Include specific examples from your previous roles that demonstrate your ability to protect interests and manage risks effectively. This will help us see how you can contribute to our team.
Be Clear and Concise: Remember, we value excellent communication skills! Ensure your application is clear and concise, especially when explaining complex issues. Use straightforward language to convey your points, as this reflects your ability to communicate effectively with a diverse audience.
Follow Application Instructions: Don’t forget to follow the application instructions carefully! Upload your covering letter and CV in the specified section and include your referees' details. We won’t be able to consider any additional documents, so stick to what’s requested to keep your application on track.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Agreements
Before the interview, brush up on different types of agreements you might encounter in the role. Familiarise yourself with material transfers, research collaborations, and intellectual property rights. This will show your understanding of the complexities involved and demonstrate your readiness to negotiate effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent verbal and written communication is key for a Contracts Manager, prepare examples that highlight your ability to convey complex issues clearly. Think of times when you successfully communicated with diverse stakeholders, from researchers to corporate representatives, and be ready to share these stories.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss your project management experience in detail. Highlight specific projects where you had to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines. This will illustrate your ability to handle multiple agreements simultaneously while maintaining a positive, can-do attitude.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the challenges the Research Office faces or how they measure success in their partnerships. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you.
