Copyright Assistant (Fixed Term)

About the opportunity

The University of Cambridge is seeking a Copyright Assistant on a fixed-term basis to support its libraries and archives, which hold an exceptional collection of books, manuscripts, maps, photographs and other valuable research and cultural materials. This position offers the chance to build specialist knowledge in copyright, work closely with a range of university stakeholders, and contribute to an important transition in digital content management.

You will help support the move to the CLA Digital Content Store (DCS) and assist with copyright compliance, training, guidance creation, committee administration and day-to-day support for staff, students, researchers and academic colleagues. The role is well suited to someone who enjoys working with people, communicating clearly, and developing expertise in a fast-changing area of higher education.

This is a two-year fixed-term post, with funding available for 24 months initially. The role is also open to secondment for current University of Cambridge employees, subject to prior discussion with a line manager. Flexible working and part-time arrangements may be considered.

Key duties

• Support compliance with the Copyright Licensing Agency licence, the Digital Content Store and other relevant licensing arrangements, including coordination with external organisations.
• Help administer copyright committees, professional networks and communications across Cambridge University Libraries and college libraries.
• Provide helpdesk support, one-to-one advice, training and documentation for library staff, students, researchers and academic colleagues.
• Contribute to service improvements, including copyright guidance resources, record-keeping processes and emerging models such as Controlled Digital Lending.
• Assist in policy implementation and help strengthen copyright knowledge and practice across the university.

What the role requires

• Working knowledge of copyright, ideally gained in higher education, libraries or a similar environment.
• Ability to explain detailed copyright matters in a clear and practical way to varied audiences.
• Experience producing guidance, training materials or supporting documentation.
• Understanding of compliance work linked to policies, licences or similar frameworks.
• Strong planning and organisation skills, with the ability to balance several priorities and keep accurate records.
• A proactive attitude toward learning, networking and staying current with legal, policy and sector developments.

Additional information

Generous annual leave is provided at 36 days, inclusive of public holidays. The package also includes exceptional parental leave covering maternity, paternity/co-parent, adoption and shared parental leave, retail discounts, and access to professional development opportunities including apprenticeships and training courses.

The University welcomes applications from people seeking part-time or flexible working. It also particularly encourages applications from candidates from a BME background, as they are currently under-represented at this level in the department.

Applicants should include reference VE49990 in their application and any related correspondence. Informal enquiries may be directed to Kat Davies, Document Delivery Librarian, at kd355@cam.ac.uk. The application deadline is Sunday 28 June 2026, and interviews are scheduled for Friday 24 July 2026.

The University of Cambridge states that it actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion, and welcomes applications from all sections of society. It also notes that employees must be eligible to live and work in the UK.

Terms and conditions

This appointment is fixed term and funded for 24 months in the first instance. Current University of Cambridge employees may be considered for a secondment, provided this has been discussed with their line manager before applying.