Research Development Associate

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Job title Research Development Associate Job reference REQ
260747 Date posted 12/10/2026 Final date to receive applications 06/11/2026 Location Loughborough Package Management and Specialist grade 6 from £35,608 to £46,049 per annum. Subject to annual pay award.

Job description

Research and Innovation Office

Full-time, Fixed-Term for 12 Months (or the earlier return of the postholder) - Maternity cover

Hybrid working: 3 days on campus and 2 days remote

Are you passionate about helping researchers develop ambitious ideas and secure funding to deliver impactful research? Do you enjoy building relationships, spotting opportunities and supporting others to succeed?

Loughborough University is seeking a Research Development Associate to join the Research & Innovation Office (RIO) on a 12-month maternity cover contract. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the heart of a thriving research environment, supporting researchers to develop projects, partnerships and funding applications that address major societal challenges.

Here's more about the role and what we're looking for:

As part of the Research & Partnership Development Team, you will play a vital role in supporting researchers throughout the funding lifecycle, from identifying opportunities and developing ideas through to submission of competitive funding proposals. Working closely with academics, Research Development Managers, Associate Deans for Research and Innovation, and external stakeholders, you will help strengthen the University's research funding pipeline and research culture.

A key aspect of the role will be supporting fellowship development across the University. You will work with early career and established researchers to identify suitable fellowship opportunities, coordinate development activities and provide guidance that supports career progression and research leadership ambitions.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Identifying and communicating research funding and fellowship opportunities.
• Supporting the development of high-quality funding applications and strategic bids.
• Delivering workshops, briefing sessions and researcher development activities.
• Monitoring developments in the research funding landscape and providing intelligence on funder…