Development Officer - Maths, Physics and Life Sciences

Are you a creative and curious relationship builder with an interest in science and technology, and its ability to change the world?

University of Oxford s world-leading Mathematical Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Development team is looking for their next aspiring fundraising professional, offering the chance to learn, grow and hone their skills in the role of Development Officer.

Offering an exceptional salary and benefits package along with unrivalled opportunities for professional development, this is a unique early-career opportunity for a driven individual with fundraising, marketing or transferable relationship skills looking for a stimulating and nurturing learning environment.

About the role:

From climate science and robotics, to drug discovery and surveying and conserving tropical rainforests, Oxford scientists are at the forefront of international research and their work has global impact. You ll join the country s most successful higher education Development team working closely with academics and researchers with an international reputation for excellence.

You will help to raise funds for cutting-edge, innovative and life-changing research, scholarships, access and outreach, and a number of key capital projects.

You ll also develop your skills and experience across a range of income streams: regular giving, stewardship, legacies and major gifts, including gaining experience facilitating gifts up to six figures.

About you:

You ll already have some fundraising, business development, alumni relations, or marketing experience. We re looking for you to be able to positively and confidently engage and build rapport, both in conversation and writing.

You re naturally curious and keen to learn more about the potential for scientific developments impact world issues, and change people s lives.

We d also love to see you demonstrate the following skills and qualities:
Think strategically and tactically about the relations between potential donors and fundraising goals.

Be creative in producing materials, with an understanding of how to articulate projects for donors.

Able to manage, prioritise and adapt to a diverse workload, meet deadlines, and work calmly under pressure.

In return for your passion and commitment, you ll receive a generous salary and benefits package, joining a supportive team that will encourage and nurture you to thrive.

What we offer:

Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:

Flexible hybrid working

An excellent contributory pension scheme

38 days annual leave

Membership to CASE

Training and development opportunities

A comprehensive range of childcare services

Family leave schemes

Cycle loan scheme

Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

Application process

Click the link to Apply and follow the on-screen instructions on our Application portal.

Applications must include of a CV and a letter of application, in your own words (in PDF format), outlining your motivations to apply for this role, your relevant experience and how you meet the criteria of the person specification.

Only applications received before 12.00 noon on 14 January 2026 can be considered.

Interviews are currently scheduled to take place 22 January 2026, in person in Oxford.

Development and Alumni Engagement is committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills and experiences. We encourage applicants from all sectors of the community and are especially keen to encourage candidates from under-represented groups to apply.

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.