Research jobs in United Kingdom

Location: Oxford (Ellison Institute of Technology)

Remuneration Package: Competitive salary / company car OR car allowance / Mobility (re-location & expenses provided)

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) is an innovative and mission-driven organisation founded by Larry Ellison, co‑founder of Oracle. With a vision to tackle global challenges in health, food security, clean‑energy and AI, EIT is at the forefront of scientific and technological advancement.

The Oxford campus is undergoing a world‑class transformation, featuring bespoke facilities including laboratories, an auditorium, executive offices, a central courtyard and pioneering research hubs. In collaboration with Laing O'Rourke we are delivering one of the most ambitious developments in the UK, with a total project value exceeding £1.5 billion.

We are seeking an experienced and driven Senior Quantity Surveyor to join our dynamic commercial team. This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of a landmark construction project that blends high technology, architectural excellence and scientific innovation.

As a Senior QS you will play a pivotal role in the delivery and commercial management of complex and high‑value works. You will be responsible for ensuring that project profit targets are met, managing contracts, preparing valuations and overseeing commercial risk and cost control throughout the project lifecycle.

• Lead the commercial function on a major section of the EIT project or across multiple workstreams.
• Manage all quantity surveying duties, including cost estimation, interim valuations and final accounts.
• Oversee subcontractor procurement, contract drafting and settlement.
• Monitor and report monthly costs, valuations and forecast performance.
• Collaborate closely with client representatives, delivery partners and the design team.
• Prepare claims and support contract amendments and change‑management processes.
• Drive financial efficiency, value engineering and contractual compliance.
• Mentor junior QS team members and support their professional development.

• Degree‑qualified in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or a related field.
• Minimum 7–10 years’ experience in a QS or Contracts Administration role, ideally within large‑scale construction or research/educational facilities.
• Strong knowledge of JCT Standard Building Contract Without Quantities (2016) and contractor‑designed portions.
• Experience managing complex cost schedules, variations, provisional sums and inflation clauses.
• Excellent commercial acumen, communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to lead and work effectively in a fast‑paced, evolving environment.

• Be part of a globally significant institution revolutionising health, science and technology.
• Collaborate on a cutting‑edge £1.5bn project with renowned industry leaders.
• Work in a purpose‑driven, innovation‑focused environment with real‑world impact.
• Attractive salary package and long‑term development opportunities.

We are an international engineering and construction company delivering state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure and buildings projects for clients in the UK, Middle East and Australia.

Certainty, reliability, quality – this is what our clients want. At Laing O'Rourke we have more than 150 years of experience delivering it. Our story is one of energy, passion, ambition, people and teamwork. We harness the power of our experience, stretching back over a century and a half to deliver certainty for our clients.

We want to ensure our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you need the application form in an alternative format or you would like to know more about our recruitment process, please email resourcingteam@laingorourke.com.

Apply for consideration!