Product Owner – Research Facilities Management

IT/Technical

Are you a Product Owner eager to work with cutting-edge technology? Join our dynamic Research Services team at the University of Oxford and play a key role in developing and maintaining innovative IT systems that support research, teaching, and administration.

Location: 5 Worcester Street, Oxford OX1 2BX

Salary: £49,119 - £58,265 per annum (pro rata)

Contract: Full Time (part-time will be considered), Fixed Term Contract (to 31 July 2028)

About Us

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires," the University of Oxford has been ranked the world's leading university for nine consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you'll contribute to ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

The Research Services Department plays a vital role in supporting the University's world-leading research community. Working across all divisions, the department provides expert advice and comprehensive administrative support throughout the entire research lifecycle — from identifying funding opportunities and developing grant proposals to managing awards, contracts, and compliance. With a focus on fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence, Research Services ensures that Oxford's researchers have the resources and guidance they need to deliver impactful research that advances knowledge and benefits society. Joining the department means contributing to a dynamic, professional team that underpins the success of one of the world's foremost research institutions.

The department's work is guided by the following core values:

• Collaboration - We work in successful partnership with colleagues across the University and beyond. Our relationships are built on clear communication, shared goals, flexibility, and mutual respect.
• Excellence - Through innovation, investment and continuous improvement in the quality and efficiency of our professional services, we are committed to providing outstanding support and trusted expertise.
• Inclusion - We create an environment where everyone can succeed. We celebrate and promote diversity and equality, and listen to everyone equally.
• Integrity - We act with openness, honesty, and courage. We challenge ourselves and encourage the same in others.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 5 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About the Role

• The University of Oxford will deploy a new software solution to support the management of its world class research facilities, spanning microscopy, imaging, materials testing, carbon dating and much more. Funded as part of the University's wider Digital Transformation programme, the software will streamline the operational and financial management of the services provided, ensuring technical staff are freed to focus on support for research, and that facilities are placed on a more sustainable financial footing through maximisation of cost recoveries and other income generation.
• We now seek a Product Owner, who will lead deployment of the solution, and ensure the support it provides continues to improve in response to users' evolving demands over time. The ideal candidate will have proven experience of product development, from conception through to benefits realisation, ideally across broad stakeholder environments. Strong analytical, interpersonal and communication skills, and high levels of curiosity, will be required to build confidence, and manage complexity. And a proven commitment and responsiveness to evolving needs will be needed to ensure the sustained product development and customer satisfaction.
• For the right individual, the role offers a unique and exciting opportunity to shape a wholly new service in support of our research mission, and work with a breadth of colleagues across a diverse and dynamic landscape. You will join and work alongside friendly, dynamic, and highly skilled teams.

Sponsorship and Right To Work

• This role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa. The University will meet the cost of the Skilled Worker visa and NHS surcharge for applicants that require a visa.
• Please let us know in your application if you require sponsorship.

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 9 January 2026.

Interviews will take place on Monday 19 January, and will be held face-to-face.