Collaborative R&D Associate

Opportunity overview

The Collaborative R&D Associate role offers an exciting opportunity to help grow high‑quality research and innovation at the University of Salford. We are seeking a proactive, detail‑focused individual with experience in collaborative R&D, Innovate UK, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP), industry‑engaged research, and proposal development. You will work across all schools to support academics and external partners in shaping competitive funding submissions and advancing the University’s Innovation Strategy.

This role suits someone who is analytical, collaborative, confident with stakeholders, and skilled in managing multiple projects.  R&D, Innovate UK, KTP, research development, funding proposals.

• Support development of‑quality Innovate UK, KTP and iPhD funding proposals.
• Conduct opportunity scanning, market research, and landscape analysis to identify strategic R&D prospects.
• Provide guidance on proposal structure, non‑technical writing, budgeting, impact planning, and funder alignment.
• Build strong relationships with academics, researchers, and external partners to enhance collaborative project development.
• Deliver training, resources, and awareness‑raising activities to strengthen internal capability in collaborative R&D.

The Research & Knowledge Exchange (RKE) Directorate drives the University of Salford’s research ambition, supporting growth in external income, partnerships, innovation, and real‑world impact. We enable academics and industry collaborators to develop high‑quality research projects by providing expertise in funding, knowledge transfer, research development, commercial partnerships, and external engagement. Working across all schools, the Directorate delivers strategic support, training, and tools to strengthen capability and maximise the University’s contribution to regional, national, and global innovation priorities.

Our mission is to foster a thriving research environment that creates meaningful benefits for society, industry, and communities.