Research Finance Administrator

Research Finance Administrator

Duration: 9 Months

Rate: £20.76 - £24.88 / hour

Location: London Hybrid (2 days on-site)

Are you ready to take your career to the next level in a dynamic and world-leading research environment? We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Finance Administrator to join our team and support our extensive portfolio of European Commission (EC) funded research projects. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a role that combines financial expertise with the excitement of cutting-edge research.

Please note - you MUST have experience working on European Commission-related projects.

As a Research Finance Administrator, you will be at the heart of our research finance operations, providing comprehensive post-award accounting services for our EC research portfolio. Your role will involve:

• Financial Monitoring and Reporting: Overseeing the financial health of EC research projects, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting to the European Commission.
• Specialist Advice and Support: Offering expert financial and administrative advice to academic staff, departmental administrators, and external collaborators.
• Training and Guidance: Providing vital support and training to Research Finance Administrators within the team, ensuring they are well-versed in EC methods, systems, and procedures.
• Audit Coordination: Arranging and coordinating internal and external audits, maintaining a full audit trail, and ensuring compliance with EC terms and conditions.
• Contract Management: Interpreting complex EC funded research contracts and providing specialist advice to ensure adherence to contract requirements and deadlines.

• Monitor and report on the financial status of EC research projects.
• Provide specialist advice to academic departments and finance teams on post-award administration.
• Collaborate with the European Research and Innovation Office to offer guidance on EC post-award administration.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of EC terms and conditions, proposing process improvements as needed.
• Train and support staff in the financial management of EC research projects.
• Coordinate audits, ensuring clear audit trails and compliance with regulations.
• Act as the main point of contact for external auditors, resolving any issues that arise.
• Manage currency exchange rate calculations and project budget changes.
• Reconcile timesheets and produce high-quality financial reports.
• Maintain accurate records in financial systems and document management systems.
• Handle complex queries and provide information to the academic community and external bodies.

• Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent work experience.
• Experience: Proven track record in EC financial and administrative roles within a higher education institute.
• Skills: Strong IT skills, excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, and a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Abilities: Ability to work independently and as part of a team, manage multiple tasks under pressure, and adapt to a changing environment.
• Knowledge: Detailed understanding of EC financial regulations and experience with financial systems (preferably Oracle).

This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of a world-leading research institution, contributing to groundbreaking projects that have a real impact. You will work in a supportive and collaborative environment, with opportunities for professional development and career progression. We are currently trialling hybrid working, allowing you to work remotely for up to 80% of the week if desired.

If you are passionate about research finance and ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role, we want to hear from you! Apply online today and join us in making a difference through research and innovation.