Research Support and Bidding Officer

About The Job

Interview Date: 11/12 March 2025

We are seeking to appoint a Research support and bidding officer to work as part of the Research support team responsible for developing and delivering support that enables our Researchers to maximise their potential.  

The main purpose of this position is to provide specialist advice and support to academic and research staff in applying for funding from external bodies. The Research support officer will play a key role in supporting individual academics to develop research ideas into distinct and fundable projects. The post holder will also support the development of relevant documentation for each bid in addition to other administrative duties such as preparing and checking project budgets.

We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another.  With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.

About You

You will have an excellent understanding of the University research environment. Educated to degree level (or equivalent level of experience), you will have excellent communication skills combined with a high level of integrity, self-motivation, and the ability to work to competing deadlines. You will need an understanding of the sources of funding for Research purposes and a proven track record of successful bidding or tendering.

In addition, you will have previous experience of preparing written reports (or similar documentation), performing desk-based research, using databases and data manipulation, and stakeholder relationship management. Understanding of financial systems and project or programme budget administration will be useful skills in the post.

We are seeking a self-motivated, flexible and committed individual to join the team and would welcome an application if you feel you meet these expectations.

Qualifications

Essential:

• Good Honours degree        
• Evidence of continuing professional development              

Desirable:

• Relevant vocational/professional qualification and/or membership of a relevant professional body

Research and Knowledge Exchange

You will be joining a young, friendly and expanding Directorate of Research and Knowledge Exchange. This Directorate comprises of the Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise team, Research and Innovation Funding Services, Research Support, the Graduate School and the Institutes of Public Safety and Criminal Justice and Social Impact and Innovation.

This Directorate works closely with the Faculties, Institutes and Professional Services to support and deliver the University’s research and knowledge exchange ambitions including the commercialization of research and enterprise activities. The Directorate oversees the University’s REF and KEF submission and supports aspects of the TEF submission.

About Us

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our People
Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.

Right To Work

All candidates will be required to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK during the interview process. The University is open to considering Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, provided that the eligibility criteria of the points-based immigration system are met.

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.

The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON
Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include:

1. Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
2. Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.
3. Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON’s Major Commitments:

• Disability Confident
• Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

For more details, visit: Equality and Diversity at UON