An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and proactive Senior Research Operations Officer to join a leading London university. This crucial role will provide high-level administrative and operational support across pre-award and post-award research management, finance, and HR-related processes.
Key responsibilities:
*Support academics with the preparation, review, and submission of research funding applications, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and alignment with funder guidelines
*Develop and review research budgets, advise on costings (including fEC), and manage internal approvals
*Oversee the financial administration of active research awards, including expenditure monitoring, reporting, reconciliations, and processing variations or extensions
*Act as a key point of contact for stakeholders across the university, research partners, and funding bodies, ensuring consistent communication and timely resolution of queries
*Coordinate HR-related processes including onboarding/offboarding, contract changes, and maintenance of personnel records in line with institutional policies
*Ensure high-quality data management across internal research systems, supporting audits and maintaining compliance with financial and governance requirements
*Contribute to improving operational processes, identifying efficiencies and supporting best practice within the research operations function
Ideal Candidate:
*Strong experience in a Higher Education research support or research operations environment
*Confident working across both pre-award and post-award areas
*Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and work to tight deadlines
*High attention to detail and accuracy in financial and administrative processes
*Ability to build strong working relationships with academics, professional services, and external partners
*Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with Worktribe, ORACLE-based finance systems, or similar research management tools is desirable
*Knowledge of HR and research grant costing processes is advantageous
Location: Central London, 2 days per week on-site
Duration: 5-6 month temporary contract
Pay rate: £30 per hour (umbrella)
Working hours: 35 hours per week
Working pattern: Hybrid, 2 days per week on-site
This vacancy will be actively shortlisted so early applications are encouraged to avoid missing out.

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