Assistant Contracts Officer

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world‑class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.

Are you ready to be part of an ambitious and highly skilled team at the University of Sheffield? We are seeking a dynamic individual to join our Research Contracts Team as an Assistant Contracts Officer. This role is ideal for someone who:

• Is pragmatic, logical, and proactive
• Delivers a customer‑focused approach
• Has excellent attention to detail
• Communicates clearly and directly
• Is inquisitive and eager to learn
• Can handle shifting priorities

At the University of Sheffield, we pride ourselves on our world‑class research and innovation capabilities. We will offer you mentorship and training to help you apply your relevant experience to contracts that support these endeavours. Your responsibilities will include reviewing confidentiality agreements and drafting and negotiating standard research contracts. You will directly engage with partner organisations such as universities, charities, businesses, government departments, the NHS, and international funders.

With support from colleagues, you will collaborate closely with academic and professional staff at all levels and review various contracts including material transfer agreements, non‑disclosure agreements, variations to contracts and research collaboration agreements. By showing interest in the goals of teams conducting research and innovation and understanding their priorities and challenges, you will provide timely and appropriate support.

You will join a friendly and encouraging team, working 50% on campus and 50% remotely. We offer excellent professional development opportunities to advance your skills and experience, and we are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.

• Review, adapt, and negotiate confidentiality, material transfer, variations, studentship, and research collaboration agreements with external organisations. Ensure appropriate measures and terms manage risks effectively and secure the best outcome for the University.
• Provide a transparent and timely service based on a deep understanding of contracting issues in a given area.
• Work within a framework agreed with the University, offering advice, guidance and recommendations to academic staff and colleagues on issues including acceptable risks, Intellectual Property, and project management.
• Prepare and make recommendations for the signature of agreements.
• Maintain an up‑to‑date database and other records to ensure a comprehensive record of negotiations and agreements.
• Work closely with colleagues within the broader team and beyond to guarantee suitable financial terms are incorporated in agreements.
• Coordinate with colleagues in Research, Partnerships, and Innovation, as well as other University departments to ensure that suitable protocols and regulations are incorporated in contracts.
• Pursue ongoing professional development to deepen knowledge of the contracting process, relevant legal issues, and the University context.
• As a member of staff, you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
• Perform other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the…