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- Tasks: Join our team as a Finance/Accounts Assistant, handling invoices and financial queries.
- Company: Be part of the Gurdon Institute at the University of Cambridge, leading in cancer research.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience in finance while contributing to groundbreaking scientific research.
- Qualifications: GCSE level education or equivalent experience; proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
- Other info: This is a permanent part-time role with immediate availability.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen to join our busy and friendly research institute as a Finance/Accounts Assistant. The Gurdon Institute is a department of the University of Cambridge at the cutting edge of science, with 12 research groups, carrying out research on projects related to cancer and developmental biology.
We are looking for a friendly, flexible and highly numerate Finance/Accounts Assistant to join our Admin team. The successful candidate will have excellent organisational skills and experience of working in an accounts and ideally laboratory-based environment. Experience of working with research grants would also be desirable. As the role involves liaising with members of the Institute at all levels and occasionally external agencies and sponsors, in addition to acting as a point of contact for financial queries, it is essential that you have excellent communication skills. You should be able to work as part of a team but also to work independently. Knowledge of university finance systems would be an advantage, to enable you to provide cover for the team during holidays of other team members.
Duties will include:
- Acting as first point of contact for finance enquiries.
- Raising and processing invoices and expense claims.
- Reconciling credit card statements.
- Running and reviewing UFS reports and issuing the information to grant holders.
- Acting as a point of contact for financial matters within the Institute.
- Maintaining, filing and archiving financial records and databases.
- Credit controlling of month end procedures.
- Providing cover for Stores and purchasing team.
Essential skills for this post are:
- Educated to GCSE level or have equivalent practical experience.
- Experience using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail in your work.
- Be able to communicate effectively with a range of colleagues across the Institute.
The position is permanent and available immediately. We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements. 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.
Finance/Accounts Assistant (Part Time) employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance/Accounts Assistant (Part Time)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the University of Cambridge's finance systems. Understanding their specific processes and tools will give you an edge during interviews, showing that you're proactive and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the Gurdon Institute or similar departments. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your Excel skills, particularly in areas like data analysis and financial reporting. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these areas can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with research grants, if applicable. Highlighting any relevant experience will show that you understand the unique financial aspects of working within a research environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance/Accounts Assistant (Part Time)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance and accounts, particularly any roles that involved working with research grants or in a laboratory environment. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities of the Finance/Accounts Assistant role. Emphasise your organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel. Mention any experience you have with university finance systems or similar software, as this will strengthen your application.
Show Enthusiasm for the Role: Express your genuine interest in joining the Gurdon Institute and contributing to their research efforts. Highlight your flexibility and willingness to work as part of a team, as well as independently when required.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance/Accounts Assistant, you'll need to demonstrate your numerical skills. Brush up on basic accounting principles and be prepared to discuss your experience with financial tasks, such as invoicing and reconciliations.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles, especially in resolving financial queries.
✨Familiarise Yourself with University Systems
If you have prior experience with university finance systems, highlight it during the interview. If not, do some research on common systems used in academic settings to show your willingness to learn.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Independence
The job requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully collaborated with others and instances where you've taken initiative on your own.
