Collaborative RD 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 high‑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.

• Competitive salary – and excellent pension scheme
• An impressive 32 days leave – plus bank holidays, additional time off at Christmas and the opportunity to buy even more!
• Flexible working – we support a culture of flexible and agile working to help you find the right balance
• Professional development – we offer a comprehensive package of training and development opportunities to help you achieve your full potential
• Our community – there's a real sense of belonging here  value diversity, in backgrounds and in experiences. Our difference makes us stronger, and together we share a passion for improving students' lives
• The Perks! – MySalford, our online employee portal offers a wide range of lifestyle benefits and discounts
• Wellbeing support – all our people are important to us and we have services and facilities dedicated to your mental and physical health, ranging from an Employee Assistance Programme and counselling, to sports and fitness facilities including discounted gym memberships
• Sustainable Salford – we have a commitment to be Net Zero by 2038 and embed sustainability in all aspects of university life.
• Greater Manchester – live and work in one of the most vibrant regions in the UK, a hot spot of digital innovation, excellent schools and colleges, and with affordable city, suburban and rural living options to suit a wide range of lifestyles
• Our Peel Park campus is unique with lots of green spaces and great transport links including Salford Crescent train station – we’re easy to get to
• Team Salford – join us here in Salford and be part of one of the UK's fastest growing universities
• A rewarding career – where everything you do will make a difference. To our students, our local community, and the world around you