Location: Aston University, Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom
Salary: £30,805 to £36,130 per annum
Grade: Grade 07
Contract Type: Permanent
Basis: Full-Time
Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship: Available
Closing Date: 23:59 BST, Monday 05 May 2025
Interview Date: Monday 19 May 2025
Reference: 0167-25
Release Date: Monday 21 April 2025
About Aston University: A Leading Institution in Research and Innovation
Aston University is committed to driving world-class research and supporting the development of its staff through a dynamic and inclusive work environment. Situated in the heart of Birmingham, this prestigious university offers an exciting opportunity for professionals in the research sector to play a pivotal role in shaping its future. The Grants and Contracts Officer role is a key position within Aston’s Research Services department, supporting research staff and helping secure funding for innovative projects across various disciplines.
Key Responsibilities of the Grants and Contracts Officer
The Grants and Contracts Officer will be instrumental in driving the success of research projects and ensuring compliance with research funding guidelines. This involves working closely with a range of stakeholders, including academics, researchers, and external funding bodies, to develop and manage funding proposals and contracts. Key responsibilities include:
Funding Development and Award Management
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Identifying and developing funding opportunities for research programs, particularly in the fields of Engineering and Physical Sciences.
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Supporting the submission of bids and proposals to external funding bodies, ensuring alignment with the Research Excellence Framework.
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Assisting in the preparation of detailed research proposals and submissions, which include writing and editing content to enhance the quality of applications.
Post-Award Support and Contract Management
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Leading on post-award activities, ensuring successful research projects meet all contractual and regulatory obligations.
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Reviewing and processing research-related contracts, agreements, and funding documentation.
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Ensuring that contracts comply with university policies, funder guidelines, and legal regulations.
Collaboration and Relationship Management
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Collaborating across departments to align research goals and develop long-term funding strategies.
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Building and nurturing strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including funding bodies and academic teams.
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Communicating with researchers, helping them navigate funding requirements, ensuring they understand the terms of contracts and awards.
Operational Excellence and Compliance
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Ensuring that research activities are fully compliant with funder rules and institutional regulations.
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Contributing to the university’s Research and Enterprise 2030 Strategy, supporting researchers to achieve significant impact in their fields.
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Monitoring and maintaining data related to research contracts, helping track progress and ensure timely compliance.
Qualifications and Experience
To succeed in the Grants and Contracts Officer role at Aston University, candidates should possess a unique blend of skills, experience, and qualifications:
Essential Requirements
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A degree or equivalent professional qualification.
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Significant experience in contract management and funding development, ideally within a research or academic setting.
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Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to draft and negotiate contracts effectively.
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Proven organizational and planning skills, capable of managing multiple tasks and deadlines.
Desirable Attributes
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Familiarity with the Research Excellence Framework and experience in submitting research funding proposals.
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Experience in working with a variety of research funding agencies, understanding their specific requirements.
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A collaborative and adaptable approach, comfortable working with diverse teams across the university and external partners.
Skills and Competencies
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Analytical thinking: Ability to analyze and interpret funding opportunities and contract terms.
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Relationship-building: Capable of establishing and maintaining positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
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Detail-oriented: High attention to detail when reviewing contracts, proposals, and documentation.
What We Offer: A Competitive Package
Aston University is committed to supporting its employees’ professional and personal development, offering a comprehensive benefits package:
Salary and Benefits
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Competitive salary range of £30,805 to £36,130 per annum.
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Generous annual leave scheme, including 30 days of bookable leave and 13 days of bank holidays and university closure days.
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Family-friendly policies, including flexible working options to support work-life balance.
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Discounts for various activities and retailers, providing staff with access to exclusive offers.
Wellness and Development
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On-site gym and swimming pool with discounted membership rates.
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Continuous training and development opportunities, including workshops, courses, and access to professional networks.
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A supportive work culture that encourages inclusivity and diversity, promoting a collaborative environment where everyone is valued.
Visa Sponsorship
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Aston University is able to provide Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for eligible candidates.
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Eligibility criteria for visa sponsorship may include:
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Candidates under 26 years of age.
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Candidates with a PhD relevant to the role.
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Candidates who have previously held a Student or Graduate visa in the past two years.
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Individuals currently in the UK on a Tier 2 or Skilled Worker visa issued before 4th April 2024.
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Why Choose Aston University?
Aston University offers a unique work environment, combining a vibrant campus with a focus on inclusivity and innovation. Located in the heart of Birmingham, one of the UK’s most diverse and exciting cities, Aston provides a dynamic atmosphere for professionals to thrive. The university’s commitment to research excellence ensures that employees have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to both local and global research agendas.
Working at Aston University means being part of an institution with a long-standing reputation for promoting academic achievement, research integrity, and community engagement. It’s an opportunity to work with a wide range of experts and make an impact in various research domains.
How to Apply
Candidates interested in the Grants and Contracts Officer position should apply online before the closing date on 5 May 2025. The application process includes submitting a CV and a cover letter addressing the key criteria for the role.
Application Process:
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Visit the Aston University recruitment page to complete the application.
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Submit your CV and cover letter.
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Prepare for an interview on 19 May 2025 (successful candidates will be notified in advance).
Apply Here
If you have any questions or require further information about the position, please contact hr_immigration@aston.ac.uk.
Aston University’s Commitment to Equality and Diversity
Aston University is proud to be an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The university promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its operations, striving to foster an inclusive environment where all employees can feel supported and valued.
Aston’s inclusivity strategy encompasses a variety of initiatives, including gender equality, racial diversity, and sexual orientation inclusion, ensuring that everyone has the freedom to be themselves at work.
Flexible Working at Aston University
We understand the importance of work-life balance, and Aston University recognizes the value of flexible working arrangements. To discuss potential flexible working options for this role, please contact the recruiting manager directly.
Additional Information
Aston University provides a dynamic and inclusive workplace where every employee’s contributions are valued. The Grants and Contracts Officer role presents a unique opportunity to join an ambitious team and play a key role in the university’s research development strategy.
For more information on the role or to request an alternative format for the job details, please contact recruitment@aston.ac.uk.
Apply now and become part of a forward-thinking institution where you can contribute to world-class research while enjoying excellent career development and benefits!