At UTS, we’re a young, globally recognised university known for doing things differently. Based in the centre of Sydney, we work closely with industry, government, and the community to focus on outcomes that matter. Our strength lies in how we bring creativity, technology and innovation together to make a practical difference. We’re Australia’s leading young university and consistently sit within the top 100 universities globally, a reflection of the scale of our ambition and the contribution of our people. When you join UTS, you become part of a community that values inclusion, supports access to education, and works towards positive change in society.

About the Team

The role sits within the Research Office and supports researchers across the university through specialist research contracting services as part of the Research Operations and Development team.

Job Purpose

This role leads the Research Contracts function including leadership of a team that supports the review, drafting and negotiation of research agreements across the research lifecycle. It ensures the delivery of specialist contractual advice and contributes to effective research support across the research lifecycle.

Role Responsibilities

- Lead and manage the Research Contracts team to deliver review, drafting, negotiation and finalisation of research agreements.
- Provide advice on complex or high priority research agreements and research collaborations.
- Support delivery of specialist research contracting advice across the university.
- Assist with resolving disputes and research project issues and elevate where required.




- Build and maintain relationships with internal stakeholders to support contract management processes.
- Support continuous improvement in practices, processes and capability across the team.
- Monitor and report on service delivery and contribute to improving systems and processes.

Skills, Attributes and Knowledge

- Ability to lead and mentor a team to deliver research contracting services.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills across internal and external stakeholders.
- Strong planning and organisational skills, with demonstrated ability to prioritise tasks, manage competing deadlines, and coordinate multiple projects or contract matters simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
- Sound judgement and ability to make decisions on complex matters.
- Knowledge of research and industry contracting requirements.

Experience

- Substantial experience in preparing, reviewing, drafting, negotiating and advising on complex research and industry contracts within the higher education, government, or commercial sectors.
- Experience advising on legal risks including intellectual property, insurance and compliance matters.

Qualifications





- Postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
- A law qualification or current legal practising certificate is highly desirable.

What We Offer

Base Salary Range: $143,080 - $149,894 (HEW9) plus 17% superannuation (pension)

The position is full time and will be made on a continuing basis.

UTS staff also benefit from a wide range of Employee Benefits including versatile work practices, generous parental leave and salary packaging opportunities.

Closing Date

10 July 2026 at 11.59 pm (AEST)

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

UTS prioritises safety, respect, and inclusion for every member of our community. In support of this, and in line with our statutory obligations under the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2026, all prospective employees must declare any past investigations relating to gender-based violence. Employment at UTS is contingent upon completion of this declaration, and, where necessary, assessment of any identified risk factors. We appreciate your role in upholding the standards and behaviour expected of our community.

In addition, if you have a disability that requires adjustment to the recruitment process or an alternative application pathway, please contact for assistance.

We welcome applications from women, Indigenous Australians, people with disability, those who identify as LGBTIQ+ and applicants from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

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📌 Manager, Research Contracts (City of Sydney)
🏢 University Of Technology Sydney
📍 City of Sydney