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Permanent, Flexible working arrangements considered
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early.
UKCEH is seeking a pragmatic and solutions-focused Research Contracts Advisor to join our small but highly skilled and dedicated Contracts and Compliance team. This team plays a critical role within the organisation, providing expert support on research-related contractual agreements. Ensuring these agreements align with UKCEH policy, the team helps facilitate research that advances our charitable objectives and drives meaningful environmental impact.
Managing over 50 contracts, prioritising tasks, and maintaining high-quality outputs requires adaptability and a solution-focused approach. You’ll join a team that is well-organised, analytical, and proactive.
Our team is small but mighty, built on collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence. We support each other, combining kindness with a detail-oriented approach to tackle complex challenges. We continually seek improvement, question existing processes, and add value. Intellectual curiosity and challenging the status quo are encouraged.
We are an inclusive, welcoming group where diverse perspectives are valued. Sitting within the finance function, we work closely with scientists and non-scientists at all levels, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills. We rely on teamwork, clear communication, and mutual respect to solve problems, streamline processes, and manage multiple tasks.
Your main responsibilities will include:
1. Drafting and finalising research contracts and agreements such as NDAs, MTAs, Collaboration Agreements using standard templates, contract amendments, and subcontracts.
2. Identifying, communicating, and mitigating contractual risks.
3. Advising on contractual issues, including intellectual property rights, to internal staff and external stakeholders.
4. Ensuring project contracts enable future use of results for scientific research or commercial purposes.
5. Performing due diligence on third-party organisations and assisting with external due diligence checks.
6. Staying informed about relevant legislation.
7. Having delegated authority to sign contracts up to £250,000 in line with UKCEH policy.
For this role, we’re seeking someone with:
* Proven experience drafting and negotiating various types of contracts.
* A degree in a relevant subject or relevant experience (desirable), along with legal skills and knowledge.
* Experience in research contracts or within HEI/science research organisations (advantageous).
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate and work independently or as part of a team.
* Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with scientists and non-scientists at all levels.
* Attention to detail with a track record of delivering high-quality results.
* Proficiency in IT, including Excel, and ideally experience with contract management software.
We value precision and people, balancing rigorous work with a culture of warmth and support. If you thrive in a dynamic, detail-driven environment with a collaborative culture, you’ll fit right in.
You will join a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute committed to recruiting talented individuals, supporting career development, and fostering a thriving work environment.
Our science makes a tangible difference, enabling environmental and societal prosperity. We hold extensive environmental data collected over 60+ years.
Apply today! Submit your CV and a cover letter highlighting relevant qualifications, skills, or experience.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
* 27 days annual leave (rising to 29 after 5 years) plus 3 days Christmas closure.
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (role dependent).
* Peer recognition schemes.
* Enhanced parental leave.
* Support services for physical, mental, social, health, and financial issues.
UKCEH is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from neurodivergent candidates and those with disabilities. We offer adjustments and support throughout the process. If your experience doesn’t match every requirement, we still encourage you to apply as you may be a great fit for this or another role in our team.
Please note:
We cannot offer visa sponsorship for this role, nor does it qualify for endorsement for a Global Talent Visa. Please mention if you are considering self-sponsorship in your application.
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