Embarking on a Career with a Prestigious Institution: International Research Assurance Specialist

Are you passionate about research integrity, international collaboration, and risk management? The University of Oxford—the world’s top-ranked university for nine consecutive years—is offering a unique opportunity to join their Trusted Research team as an International Research Assurance Specialist. This role presents a chance to help shape and safeguard world-leading research in an institution renowned for its academic excellence.

What Does the Job Involve?

As an International Research Assurance Specialist, you will play a key role in protecting and promoting Oxford’s global research collaborations. Given the ever-evolving landscape of international partnerships in academia, there are risks associated with regulatory compliance, ethical considerations, reputational concerns, and research security. Your role will involve mitigating these risks while ensuring that the University remains at the forefront of globally acclaimed, responsible research.

You’ll work closely with researchers, student supervisors, and professional service teams across the University to:

• Conduct risk assessments and due diligence for international collaborations.
• Offer expert guidance on complex research regulations and compliance standards.
• Identify ethical, reputational, and security risks associated with various partnerships.
• Develop training and resources to educate staff and students on trusted research practices and international collaboration risks.

This dynamic position allows you to contribute strategically to a research ecosystem that informs policy decisions and advances innovation globally.

Why Join Research Services at Oxford?

Research Services is a vibrant hub with over 180 specialist staff who facilitate groundbreaking research initiatives. From negotiating contracts to fostering responsible research practices, the team actively supports Oxford’s academic and knowledge exchange communities. Guided by the values of teamwork, professionalism, empathy, and continuous improvement, Research Services is committed to fostering collaborative solutions at scale.

Advice for Applicants: An International Education Perspective

Candidates from international education backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply, bringing their global insights and understanding of diverse academic systems to this pivotal role. To stand out:

1. Highlight Relevant Experience: Showcase your expertise in compliance, risk management, or research governance, particularly within international contexts. Demonstrating knowledge of academic collaborations across borders or experience with global funding frameworks will be advantageous.
2. Cultural Awareness: Show sensitivity to the complexities of international partnerships, including cultural, ethical, and legal differences in research practices.
3. Soft Skills: Emphasize your ability to communicate clearly across diverse audiences, from researchers to administrative teams, and your capacity to interpret complex information into actionable advice.
4. Commitment to Growth: Demonstrate alignment with Oxford’s values of continuous improvement by highlighting experiences where you’ve led or contributed to training, process improvements, or risk mitigation strategies.

International applicants should ensure their CV and supporting statement directly address how their experience aligns with the specific needs of this role, while also evidence how they can engage with Oxford’s global reputation for excellence.

A Rewarding Opportunity

Here’s why you’ll love being part of the University of Oxford:

• Generous Benefits: 38 days of annual leave (including public holidays), up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity/adoption leave, and a highly flexible working environment.
• Stability and Support: A generous pension scheme, sustainable commuting benefits, and access to a wide range of university clubs and societies.
• Professional Growth: The opportunity to make an impact in an academic institution recognized worldwide for cutting-edge research and innovation.

Key Application Details

• How to Apply: Submit your CV, a supporting statement detailing your suitability for the role, and the contact information of two referees.
• Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 12 noon, Friday 16th May.
• Interviews: Scheduled to take place in person on Monday 2nd June.

This is your chance to contribute to shaping the global future of research while working at one of the most esteemed universities in the world. For further details and application guidelines, visit: researchsupport.admin.ox.ac.uk