Research and Innovation Grants Specialist

Who are we?

IOG, is a technology company focused on blockchain research and development. We are renowned for our scientific approach to blockchain development, emphasizing peer-reviewed research and formal methods to ensure security, scalability, and sustainability.

Our projects include the Cardano blockchain, as well as other products in the areas of decentralized finance (DeFi), governance, and identity management, aiming to advance the capabilities and adoption of blockchain and Web3 technology globally.

What the role involves:

The role of Research & Innovation Grants Specialist is to lead the end-to-end grants lifecycle for both foundational blockchain R&D (in areas such as formal methods, security/scalability, DeFi, governance, and digital identity) and its application in innovation projects across related industry verticals.. This includes scouting and qualifying opportunities, building a 12–24-month funding pipeline, shaping bid strategy, crafting high-quality applications aligned to funder priorities, and managing post-award budgets, deliverables, reporting, and compliance. The role coordinates inputs from research, finance, legal, and partnerships, and works closely with academic and industry collaborators to secure sustained investment that keeps research teams at the forefront of innovation. Success in the role looks like increased grant wins and total award value with a diversified funder mix; higher proposal win rates and faster submission cycles; on-time, audit-clean reporting with full contractual delivery; reusable bid assets/templates that raise quality and consistency; and repeat invitations from priority funders reflecting strong, trust-based relationships.

Grant Scanning & Pipeline Development

• Monitor and assess funding opportunities from sources such as Horizon Europe, Innovate UK (IUK), National Science Foundation (NSF), and other international programs.
• Build and maintain a forward-looking pipeline of relevant calls aligned to IOG’s research, innovation and venture priorities in blockchain and beyond.

Grant Application Development

• Lead the preparation of high-quality grant proposals, including drafting technical sections, project plans, budgets, and impact narratives.
• Coordinate inputs from researchers, engineers, and external partners to ensure applications are complete, accurate, and compelling.
• Manage timelines and submission processes across multiple applications.

Project & Partnership Support

• Collaborate with academic institutions, research consortia, and industry partners to co-develop joint applications.
• Support the establishment of new partnerships that strengthen the competitiveness of bids.
• Ensure clear communication and alignment between IOG’s research strategy and partner expectations.

Grant Compliance & Reporting

• Oversee post-award grant management, including monitoring deliverables, budgets, and reporting obligations.
• Maintain records of active grants, deadlines, and funding outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with the requirements of different funding bodies.

Strategic Contribution

• Provide insights on global funding trends in blockchain, Web3, and adjacent deep-tech research fields.
• Advise leadership on strategic grant opportunities to diversify and sustain IOG’s research funding base.
• Support internal communications by summarizing grant progress and outcomes for leadership and external reporting.

Requirements

Who you are:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a STEM field, research management, or related area. PhD preferred or equivalent experience in research and innovation environments.
• Demonstrable experience developing and managing successful grant applications in a research-driven or technology-driven organization.
• Familiarity with major research and innovation funding programs (Horizon Europe, Innovate UK, NSF, etc.).
• Experience working with international research consortia and multi-stakeholder collaborations.
• Knowledge of blockchain, decentralized systems, or applied cryptography is advantageous.
• Experience in project management, budgeting, and compliance monitoring.
• Excellent grant writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong ability to translate complex blockchain, AI and computer science research into persuasive funding narratives.
• Proven track record of securing research or innovation funding (EU, UKRI, NSF, or comparable).
• Strategic thinker with the ability to identify and pursue high-value funding opportunities.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple, complex projects simultaneously.
• Ability to build strong partnerships with academia, funders, and industry stakeholders.
• Knowledge of blockchain, Web3, cryptography, or adjacent emerging technologies is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Remote work
• Laptop reimbursement
• New starter package to buy hardware essentials (headphones, monitor, etc)
• Learning & Development opportunities
• Competitive PTO

At IOG, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are valued and empowered to succeed. We welcome people of all backgrounds and ensure that employment decisions are based solely on merit, qualifications, and potential. Everyone is given equal opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.