Research Funding Officer

This is an opportunity for an organised and detail-focused professional to join the Research and Innovation team as a Research Funding Officer. The role supports the administration and delivery of research funding competitions, ensuring applications are managed efficiently, fairly and to a high standard.

Working closely with researchers, reviewers, advisory panel members and colleagues across the organisation, the Research Funding Officer will help coordinate key funding processes and contribute to the delivery of high-quality research that advances understanding of motor neurone disease (MND). The role will also support the ongoing development of systems, processes and stakeholder engagement activities that underpin successful research funding programmes.

About the role

• Hybrid working expectation: 1 day per week in the Northampton office.
• Further information about working for the MND Association and the full job description is available in the attached Candidate Pack.
• Motor Neurone Disease moves fast. It takes away time, it takes away independence and it has no cure. Every day we support people affected by MND. We fund ground-breaking research. We campaign for better care. We're here for everyone who needs us. Because with MND, every day matters.

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of competitive research funding rounds throughout the year.
• Coordinate Biomedical and Healthcare Research Advisory Panel meetings and documentation.
• Manage funding rounds and commissioning activities through the Research Grant Management System.
• Act as a subject matter expert for the Research Grant Management System, supporting colleagues across the team.
• Develop project plans and track activity against key deadlines.
• Prepare application summaries, agendas, outcome communications and meeting papers.
• Maintain accurate records of applicants, researchers, reviewers and panel members.
• Support peer review and rebuttal processes within agreed timescales.
• Provide guidance to researchers submitting funding applications.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes and contribute to operational effectiveness.

Requirements

Essential

• Experience using digital systems and databases such as Research Grant Management Systems, with confidence learning new platforms.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to process, manage and check data accurately.
• Strong numeracy and attention to detail.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel.
• Ability to prioritise workloads and meet deadlines.
• Experience working independently and using initiative.
• A thorough and organised approach to record keeping and administration.

Desirable

• Degree in a relevant scientific discipline.

• Experience working in research funding, grant administration or a similar environment.

• As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, interviews are guaranteed for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

Benefits

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays.
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies.
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video.
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines.
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave).
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping.
• Enhanced pension scheme.
• Opportunities for training and personal development.
• Hybrid working.