Senior Research Development Officer (Internal Only UK visa sponsorship available)
Job Description
About the role
We are seeking a Senior Research Development Officer to join our Research Development & Initiatives team, providing high-quality advice and support to academic colleagues. The role will focus on supporting researchers in the Science and Medical Schools, helping them to secure external funding for research and knowledge exchange projects.
In this role, you will:
Develop and manage budgets for a wide range of funding applications.
Ensure applications comply with funder requirements, policies, and regulations.
Align funding applications with University policies and procedures.
Support award and contract agreement processes.
Work across multiple projects, balancing internal and external deadlines.
About you
You will bring:
A degree or equivalent professional experience.
Strong skills in financial costings, contracts, and compliance.
Excellent organizational abilities with keen attention to detail.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with academic staff and funders.
The ability to manage and priorities competing workloads, working independently and as part of a team.
About the Division
The Research and Innovation Division drives the University’s research ambitions, fostering new knowledge, ideas, and collaborations that create real-world impact.
Our strategy focuses on: People, Research Strengths, Interdisciplinarity, Integrity, Grant Capture, and International Reputation.
In the last year alone, the Division:
Submitted 681 funding bids
Secured 230 awards
Set up 227 projects
This is a dynamic and ambitious environment where your contribution will make a meaningful difference.
Why work at Sussex?
The University of Sussex is a world-renowned, research-led institution with a strong international reputation. Our success is built on the people who work here – academic staff, professional services teams, and students alike.
Beautiful 150-acre campus next to the South Downs.
Excellent transport links: Falmer train station (5 minutes’ walk) and several bus routes.
Cycle-to-work scheme and dedicated cycling paths.
A wide range of staff benefits and wellbeing initiatives.
Find out more about our [reward and benefits package] and our commitment to [equality, diversity and inclusion].
Key Information
Closing date: 20 October 2025, 11:59 PM
Interview date: Week commencing 13 October 2025
Start date: As soon as possible
The University requires all work to be carried out within the UK.
This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship – see our [Visa Sponsorship guidance].
