About The Team:
SRUC is unique in Scotland and one of the largest organisations of its kind in Europe. Our ambitious and exciting vision is to work at local, national and international levels, leading innovation and sustainable development in agriculture and rural sectors.
The Contracts & Legal Officer at SRUC is a pivotal role that encompasses the development and implementation of a strategic approach to contractual activities, particularly in the domains of research and development, innovation, and exploitation activities. This role is essential in shaping how SRUC engages in and manages its contractual relationships and projects. The post holder will serve as a primary liaison, bridging various departments within SRUC and with external partners/funders to ensure that contractual activities are aligned with the organisation’s broader objectives and are conducted efficiently and effectively.
The Opportunity:
The role of the Contracts & Legal Officer at SRUC involves a comprehensive scope of responsibilities aimed at ensuring the legal and strategic management of contractual activities related to academic research and commercial consultancy. This position requires a deep understanding of the nuances of contract law, academic freedom, intellectual property rights, and risk management. The job holder is accountable for the outcomes of their actions and decisions, particularly in terms of legal compliance, risk mitigation, and the facilitation of knowledge transfer. While the core responsibilities remain consistent, there may be variances in the work pattern due to seasonal peaks in academic and research activities.
- Drafting and Reviewing Agreements: This includes preparing and scrutinizing various contracts, collaboration agreements, Material Transfer Agreements, and other legal documents. The purpose here is to ensure that these documents are clear, comprehensive, and legally binding, in order to safeguard SRUC's interests and facilitate smooth academic and research operations.
- Protecting Academic Freedom: Ensuring the use of research results and intellectual property is handled in a way that respects academic integrity. This involves negotiating terms that allow for the free publication and dissemination of research findings while protecting proprietary information, in order to maintain a balance between academic exploration and legal constraints.
- Maximising Knowledge Transfer Opportunities: Actively seeking and exploiting opportunities for translating academic research into practical applications. This is achieved through strategic agreements and collaborations that promote the transfer of knowledge and technology from SRUC to industry and other sectors, ultimately driving innovation and societal impact.
- Risk Management: Managing risk through careful negotiation of warranties, liabilities, and indemnities. This is crucial in safeguarding SRUC against potential legal and financial repercussions, done in accordance with approved risk management frameworks, in order to maintain the institution's integrity and financial health.
- Ensuring Compliance: Guaranteeing that all contract activities adhere to SRUC policies, procedures, and best practices. This includes staying updated with changes in legislation and industry standards, in order to ensure that SRUC's contractual engagements are legally sound and ethically responsible.
- Recording Research Governance Arrangements: Documenting and applying relevant legislation and guidance to research proposals and activities. This is essential for ensuring that all research undertaken under SRUC’s auspices meets legal and ethical standards, thereby protecting the institution and its researchers.
- Providing Guidance: Offering expertise and advice on documentation for research projects, including aspects related to commercialisation and innovation. This helps streamline project management and ensures that all legal and procedural aspects are addressed, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of research and innovation activities.
- The post-holder will perform additional duties as directed from time to time by the Line Manager. The post holder must use their initiative in the conduct of their work and apply sound judgement at all times to ensure that they conduct themselves within the framework of SRUC regulations and procedures.
Minimum Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should be educated to SCQF Level 9 or above in a subject related to Law / Contracts.
For full person specification, please read the Job Particulars document.
Eligibility for Sponsorship:
This role may be eligible for sponsorship depending on candidate circumstances.
Admin ref: AJN/AS/009/24
Why work for SRUC?
- Generous annual leave
- Enhanced pension contributions (5% employee and 10% employer)
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted RAC Membership
- Generous family leave
- Flexible working patterns
- Hybrid working solutions (in some areas)
- Tailored investment in and individuals' learning and development
How to Apply:
Please complete an online application form by pressing “apply”.
Please read the Job Particulars document before applying.
SRUC Leading the way in Agricultural and Rural Research, Education & Consultancy.
SRUC is committed to valuing Diversity, advancing Equality and respecting Human Rights throughout the organisation and encouraging applications from disabled people using the “Disability Confident Employer” symbol. SRUC is a member of the Athena SWAN charter.
SRUC. A Charitable company limited by guarantee, SC003712. Registered in Scotland No SC103046
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme
Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to
Disability Confident.