Overview

Assistant Director- Physical Sciences at Minderoo Centre for Technology and Democracy. The Research Office is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated individual to lead the team that supports the School of Physical Sciences. This role provides leadership of the administrative process and manages a large team to support the research funding needs of the Schools. It involves heading up communication between the Research Operations Office (ROO) and the Schools and their departments, academic staff and administrative staff. The role ensures that the ROO delivers services aligned with the School's strategic aims.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the administrative team supporting the School of Physical Sciences and its departments.
• Provide strategic advice to the School regarding formulation of research proposals that conform to University requirements and address relevant academic and administrative criteria.
• Monitor changes to requirements and assess implications; provide strategic information, guidance and advice to academic staff and administrative staff.
• Serve as the primary link between ROO and the Schools to ensure services support the School’s objectives.

Qualifications and experience

We are looking for a candidate with a relevant postgraduate qualification or an undergraduate degree with an equivalent combination of relevant experience, education/training with people management experience and significant experience in complex grant administration, ideally in a university or clinical research organisation.

What the role offers

• Work within one of the most dynamic and varied research centres in the world; build relationships with academics at the forefront of their fields.
• Develop business-relations skills by liaising with a wide range of colleagues, sponsors and collaborators, often at senior levels.
• Develop management skills by leading a professional team of managers and administrators.
• Engage with developments in the funded-research sector and find solutions to new challenges.

Working arrangements

Hybrid working within teams for a minimum of 2-3 days per week from Greenwich House. Some roles may require additional onsite working according to business need and this is subject to discussion with the recruiting manager.

How to apply

To apply, upload your CV and a cover letter clearly setting out how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification, with relevant examples. Shortlisting and interviews will be based on these criteria. Click the 'Apply' button to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Important dates

Closing Date: 14 September 2025

Interviews: 1st interview w/c 22 September 2025; 2nd interview w/c 6 October 2025.

Contact and additional information

If you have questions about the application process, contact CROrecruitment@admin.cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference EW46831 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Equal opportunity

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.