Job Description

This vacancy is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship. Please do not apply unless you have another means of establishing a right to work.

This vacancy may close sooner than the advertised deadline if we receive a high volume of applications, so we recommend applying early.

Job Summary

The development and implementation of new blood components is one of NHSBT's strategic objectives. The globally renowned Component Development department is focused on the successful delivery of translational research projects to meet these objectives. Currently these projects include developing universal components and a dried plasma component.


Reporting to a scientific operations manager (translational research programme lead), as the project support officer you will help to support a large programme of research developing novel blood products for application in civilian and military medicine. In the first instance you will support PI's and your manager in developing funding applications to fund this work. If funding is successful, we anticipate that you would then support the programme lead in the delivery of the programme (with possible contract extension up to 5 years).


The programme will include working on blood group universal blood, as well as blood grown in the laboratory from stem cells and will span basic science through to phase 1 & 2 clinical studies. It will be led by NHSBT with the University of Cambridge and Bristol plus other academic and industry partners.


You will utilise both your scientific and your project management skills to succeed in this role, with the outcome of these projects likely to be translated into routine practice across the NHS and potentially internationally.

Main duties of the job

Your responsibilities will include:

Supporting a funding bid to fund a large programme of activity. Providing support to ensure that intended project outcomes are in alignment with the business strategies. Managing project budgets and payment of invoices and ensuring all operational needs are met. Managing specific sub-projects or workstreams within these major projects, referring to the Programme Lead where required. Assisting with more than one major project at any given time at different stages in their lifecycle. Managing meeting documentation including minutes, tracking actions and reviewing risk registers Awareness of technical aspects of the project, highlighting issues and finding solutions

About You

Experience and Knowledge

Experience of conducting Research and Development methodology, preferably in a life sciences context Knowledge of project management tools, including an awareness or working knowledge of how to use project management tools such as SWOT, RAID and RACI Experience of recording meeting minutes, including actions and decisions Knowledge and/or experience of financial management, preferably in a project context Ability to work alone or as part of a team, with experience of solving problems/issues within a team or on previous projects Experience of working with Information Technology using Microsoft Office packages (Word, Excel and PowerPoint)

Qualifications and Training

Degree qualified (BSc), OR equivalent relevant experience (preferably in a life science subject) Post-graduate diploma in science related or project management area OR equivalent relevant experience

About Us

It takes all types of people to deliver the kind of service that saves and improves lives. At NHS Blood and Transplant, you'll join a team of more than 6,000 people who are making a genuine difference to communities, families, friends, relatives and more across the UK. We play a unique and special role in the NHS by helping people do something extraordinary- donate blood, blood products, organs, tissues, or stem cells to save someone in need.


Our three core values are what set us apart. They guide and inspire everything we do.


By being caring, expertly meeting the needs of our patients and our people, and accepting nothing less than the best quality, we can do extraordinary work and help our people to do something extraordinary in their career, too. Three small words, one big difference - Caring, Expert and Quality. Together we'll save and improve more lives than ever.


You will join us on our journey to create an inclusive workplace and aim to reflect the diverse communities we work with, and we positively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.

What we offer:

NHSBT promotes flexible working opportunities where the role will allow. 27 days annual leave (pro rata for part-time) plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 29 days after 5 years' service and to 33 days after 10 years. NHS pension scheme. The NHS Pension Scheme is a defined benefit scheme (not dependent on investment returns) Further details and outline of benefits can be found at: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/pensions We've fostered a culture of continuous learning where colleagues are well-led, engaged, and encouraged to grow. We support you in reaching your full potential, both in your current role and future career. Our Thrive program embodies our commitment to learning and development, offering a wide range of activities to support your personal and professional growth. It's open to everyone at NHSBT, ensuring you have the resources to succeed and shine in your role.

To learn more, please see our recruitment profile, which provides a summary of the job description and person specification. This can be accessed via the link below, or by clicking 'Apply' if you are viewing this advert on another site.


This is a fixed term/secondment for 2 years (with potential to extend to 5 years).


This vacancy will close at 23:59 on Wednesday 21st January 2026.


Interviews are anticipated to be held on Wednesday 4th February 2026 subject to confirmation.


For informal enquiries please contact Melanie Munro, Translational Research Programme Lead, via email at melanie.munro@nhsbt.nhs.uk