Solicitor (Specialising in Research Contracts)

  • Knowledge Exchange
  • Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
  • Feb 20, 2026
Full time Legal

Job Description

Solicitor (Specialising in Research Contracts) Role Overview

Lead research contracts, manage risk and governance in dynamic university legal team setting.

We are a small team providing pragmatic advice and support for all Faculties and Departments to minimise risk and ensure that our staff and students are working and studying in an environment where standards are clearly communicated and upheld.

We are also responsible for statutory and constitutional matters relating to the governance of the university, including support for the Board of Governors and Academic Board; the administration of FOI and data protection and the publicly available documentation of the business of the University.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage the research and innovation function within the Legal Department and manage the Contracts Officer.
  • Draft, review and negotiate a variety of agreements with focus on innovation and collaboration.
  • Manage contractual relationships, mitigate risks, and ensure legal compliance across a diverse range of university activities.
  • Work autonomously and manage a significant and varied caseload.
  • Apply a business-oriented approach to the delivery of legal advice.
  • Act as a team player and demonstrate commercial awareness with exceptional communication and organisational skills.
Qualifications
  • Enthusiastic and experienced Solicitor specialising in Research Contracts.
  • Experience in working autonomously in a legal environment.
  • Commercial awareness and business-oriented approach.
  • Exceptional communication and organisational skills.
Benefits

Excellent benefits package including generous annual leave entitlement, pension scheme, induction and development support and family-friendly policies.

About LJMU

This is an exciting time to join the university as we deliver the LJMU Strategy 2030 and its vision of LJMU as an inclusive civic university transforming lives and futures, by placing students at the heart of everything we do.

LJMU is a distinctive, unique institution, rooted in the Liverpool City Region and with a global presence. Our students and staff, past, present and future, are the beating heart of our city and can be found in every corner of every industry and community. Working with the people of Liverpool to improve lives and support communities is at the heart of why we were founded and why we exist today.

We have a student and staff population of over 25,000 people and operate across numerous sites. The legal team's duty is to keep the LJMU community and estate safe and legally compliant.

LJMU values diversity and provides a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can fulfil their potential.

Application Process

Please note all of our vacancies will be closed to applications at midnight on the advertised closing date, unless otherwise stated.

We look forward to hearing from you if you feel that this is the role you have been looking for and your skills and experience can make a real difference at LJMU.