Junior Grant Writer - Bio Medical

Overview

Junior Grant Writer - Bio Medical. Translate biomedical science into clear, fundable grant narratives and lead proposals from concept to submission.

Location:

Cape Town-based. Working pattern:
Full-time, 40 hours.

This is an opportunity to join a growing biomedical research and advisory team as a Junior Grant Writer specialising in bio-medical funding applications. You will support researchers and clinicians in preparing competitive grant applications to Innovate UK, NIHR, Horizon Europe and European Innovation Council (EIC) programmes. The successful candidate will take full ownership of proposal writing and submission, working closely with internal technical teams, external partners, and clients.

You will translate complex scientific ideas into clear, fundable narratives, manage application timelines, and support monitoring and reporting activities post-award.

• Grant writing & submission:
  Draft, edit and finalise high-quality grant applications, lay summaries and supporting documents for biomedical research projects, ensuring adherence to funder guidelines and deadlines.
• Scientific translation:
  Work with researchers to translate complex scientific concepts into concise, accessible and compelling language tailored to different audiences (peer reviewers, funders, lay reviewers).
• Proposal development & budgeting:
  Support the development of project plans and work streams, coordinate input from cross-functional teams and assist with drafting simple budgets and justification narratives in collaboration with finance colleagues.
• Project coordination:
  Lead end-to-end development of Innovate UK and EIC funding proposals, including:
  Technical excellence sections, Impact, exploitation and commercialisation plans.
• Compliance & quality control:
  Ensure applications comply with funder eligibility, formatting and document requirements; conduct proofreading and final checks prior to submission.
• Post-award support:
  Assist with preparation of progress reports, attend funder meetings where required and support monitoring & evaluation activities relating to funded projects.
• Continuous improvement:
  Contribute to development and maintenance of proposal templates, standard operating procedures and a repository of successful application text and funder intelligence.

• Excellent spoken and written English with the ability to communicate complex scientific information clearly and professionally.
• Excellent grant-writing skills.
• Strong understanding of translational R&D Medical devices, Pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, e-health, or therapeutics Technology Readiness Levels, clinical pathways, and regulatory considerations.
• Understanding of IP strategy, freedom to operate, and commercialisation planning.
• Strong scientific credibility in the biomedical field.
• Ability to manage complex multi-partner submissions from concept to award.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients during proposal writing, submission and grant preparation activities.
• Degree (MSc or PhD) in a life sciences, biomedical or related discipline; postgraduate study or research experience is advantageous.
• Some experience in research environments, grant writing, research administration or academic support roles.
• Strong attention to detail, excellent editing and proofreading skills and a clear, persuasive writing style.
• Comfortable collaborating via MS Teams and managing multiple deadlines across projects.
• Basic understanding of research budgets and ability to work with finance colleagues to prepare budget narratives.
• Organised with the ability to manage competing priorities and maintain accurate records of submissions and outcomes.
• Familiarity with research ethics, data protection and funder reporting requirements is desirable.
• A proactive mindset with a willingness to learn, accept feedback and contribute to process improvements.

• The opportunity to work with an international, collaborative team supporting impactful biomedical research.
• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
• Exposure to a wide range of funders and project types, supporting professional development in grant writing and research administration.
• Access to training and mentoring from experienced grant and research professionals.

Apply now to join our team and help secure funding for vital biomedical research that makes a difference.