Contracts Associate(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Opportunity
The University of Reading is seeking a Contracts Associate to join its Research Contracts and Projects Team within the Research Engagement and Innovation Office (REIO). This role offers an excellent opportunity for a contracts professional who enjoys working in a research-driven, collaborative environment and wants to contribute to impactful academic and innovation activity.
The post is offered on a part-time, fixed-term basis for one year, from 1 March 2026 to 1 March 2027, and supports the University’s mission to enable high-quality research, knowledge exchange, and innovation.
The Role in Context
REIO supports researchers and external partners by providing effective contract management, project support, and governance aligned with University strategy and charitable objectives. As a Contracts Associate, you will help ensure that research and innovation activity is underpinned by robust, clear, and compliant contractual arrangements.
You will work closely with experienced Contract Managers and contribute to a diverse and expanding portfolio of research income and partnerships, at a time of ongoing service development and system improvement.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Draft, review, and negotiate a range of research and research-related agreements, including confidentiality agreements, technical services agreements, material transfer agreements, and contract amendments.
- Support lead Contract Managers in the management of more complex research and innovation projects as required.
- Liaise with academic and professional colleagues to gather background information and explain contractual terms clearly and pragmatically.
- Progress multiple contracts simultaneously, balancing competing priorities and deadlines.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including the implementation of new systems and processes.
About You
You will bring:
- Demonstrable experience in contract drafting and review, ideally within higher education, the public sector, or a commercial research environment.
- A sound working knowledge of contract law and contractual principles.
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to work under pressure and manage several matters at once.
- Clear and confident communication skills, enabling constructive negotiation and collaboration.
- A positive, proactive approach and a genuine desire to contribute to team and departmental success.
Interview Process
Interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 26 January 2026 and will include a short written assessment as part of the selection process.
Visa Information
Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker visa route, applicants who may require sponsorship are advised to check their eligibility independently before applying. Visa options will only be discussed with candidates invited to interview.
Skilled Worker visa guidance
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Legal and Regulatory Context
The role operates within the UK legal framework governing contracts, research activity, and public institutions, including:
Managing public sector contracts
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/managing-public-money
Equality, Diversity and Flexible Working
The University of Reading is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace and actively upholds national equality standards, including:
Equality Act 2010
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/equality-act-2010-guidance
We support the Athena SWAN Charter, the Race Equality Charter, and champion LGBTQ+ equality. Applications for job-share, part-time, flexible working, and secondment arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with operational requirements.
