An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Strategic Bids Coordination Lead to join the Directorate, supporting the development and delivery of high-value, strategically important research funding opportunities at the John Innes Centre.

The role:

The post holder will play a critical role in shaping, developing, and delivering large-scale, complex, and collaborative bids, working at the interface between JIC science, external partners, and the NBIP Research Grants & Contracts team. The role will focus on identifying strategic funding opportunities, supporting the development of competitive bids and partnerships, and strengthening the Institute’s position within an evolving and increasingly collaborative funding landscape.

Working closely with the Head of Science Coordination and Research Culture, Group Leaders, and key stakeholders, the post holder will provide in-depth, high-level support to a focused portfolio of strategic bids. This will include drafting and refining scientific narratives, developing strategic partnerships and ensuring alignment with funder priorities and Institute strategy.

In addition, the role will contribute to horizon scanning, external engagement, and partnership development, enabling the Institute to proactively position itself for future funding opportunities and maximise success in competitive environments.

The ideal candidate:

You will have a degree in biological sciences or related field as well as a PhD in a relevant discipline or equivalent demonstrable experience.

You will have strong scientific expertise aligned to plant and microbial sciences and a deep understanding of UKRI/BBSRC and wider research funding landscape. You will also have significant experience in a research-intensive or academic environment, skills in developing or supporting large, complex or collaborative funding proposals and the ability to engage confidently with funding bodies or contributing to funding strategy.

Additional information:

We welcome applications from candidates seeking job-share, part-time or other flexible working arrangements.

Interviews will be held mid-august.

Please note, this post does not meet UKVI requirements to provide visa sponsorship.

For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our website http://jobs.jic.ac.uk or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1006145.

We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity.  As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

Apply for this role