Senior Research Finance Officer (UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

University of Sussex is looking for a Senior Research Finance Officer to join its Research and Innovation Division. This role focuses on managing the financial lifecycle of research projects after funding has been awarded.

You’ll work closely with academic staff and professional teams, ensuring that research funding is managed effectively, meets compliance requirements, and delivers value. From setting up new grants to closing projects and supporting audits, you’ll play a key part in enabling research success.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Oversee financial management of research projects from award set-up to completion
  Provide clear financial advice to academics and project teams
  Ensure compliance with funder rules and university policies
  Monitor project budgets, forecasts, and expenditure
  Support financial reporting and audit processes
  Work with multiple stakeholders across departments to ensure smooth project delivery
  Help identify risks and provide practical solutions

About You

This role is well suited to someone who is organised, detail-focused, and comfortable working with complex financial data.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Experience in project accounting, finance, or financial management
  Strong understanding of accounting principles
  Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
  Confident communication skills when working with a variety of stakeholders
  Good IT skills, particularly with financial systems and data tools

Desirable Background

• Experience within higher education or research environments
  Familiarity with grant funding processes or externally funded projects

Note: If you have relevant transferable experience (e.g., from industry or other sectors), your application will still be considered.

About the Division

The Research and Innovation Division supports the university’s research activity from funding applications through to project delivery and impact.

It operates in a fast-paced environment, managing hundreds of research projects each year and supporting innovation across multiple disciplines. The team plays a vital role in helping research ideas turn into real-world outcomes.

Why Join Sussex

• Collaborative and supportive working environment
  Opportunity to work on diverse, high-impact research projects
  Flexible working options available
  Strong focus on professional development
  Inclusive workplace culture

Additional Information

• This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship (subject to eligibility criteria)
  Sponsorship eligibility may depend on existing visa status and salary thresholds
  Work must be carried out within the UK

Useful UK Government Resources

• Skilled Worker Visa
  UK Visas and Immigration
  Right to Work in the UK
  Employment Contracts
  Tax and National Insurance