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. About the Role 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. Key Responsibilities 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. What We're Looking For 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). Why Join Us? 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. How to Apply 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