Research Administrator Intermediate I (Hybrid Work Arrangement)

University Of Michigan - Ann Arbor, MI

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Ann Arbor, MI

51-100 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Research Administrator at the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) plays a crucial role in providing financial portfolio management and budgeting support to faculty and administrators throughout the grant process. This position involves both pre-award preparation and post-award administration, ensuring compliance with regulations and effective communication between various stakeholders. The role is part of a collaborative community that emphasizes professional growth and offers flexible work arrangements.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the administrative aspects of the research process for both external and internal funding.
• Assist in proposal creation by sourcing relevant materials, formatting, and editing.
• Support the development of multi-year budgets and budget justifications.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders as needed.
• Ensure proposals are routed promptly through the institutional approval process.
• Project and update encumbrances, analyze faculty accounts, and prepare financial transactions post-award.
• Compile statistical, financial, accounting, or auditing reports and tables.
• Resolve mid-size compliance-related issues and assist management with larger issues.
• Provide assistance to faculty with rebudgeting, report preparation, and renewals/extension paperwork.
• Maintain clear communication with faculty, LSA administrators, and the Office of Research and Sponsored Projects (ORSP).
• Engage in ongoing efforts to enhance processes and document best practices in research administration.

Requirements

• Bachelor degree or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Typically three years of relevant research administrative experience and/or higher-level financial activities.
• Prior experience with research administration or relevant experience in a comparable environment with tight regulations and compliance requirements.
• Progressive knowledge of Excel and other Office products, with comfort in changing technology.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with co-workers and provide excellent customer service.
• Attention to detail, sound judgment, and ability to meet high work standards under pressure.
• Excellence in verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to independently manage the pre-award and post-award process.

Nice-to-haves

• Certified Research Administrator (CRA).
• Knowledge of UM financial practices and processes strongly preferred.
• Prior experience with federal funding agencies such as NSF, NIH, and DOE strongly preferred.
• Experience with eResearch electronic PAF and proposal submission.

Benefits

• Flexible work arrangements allowing for remote work as necessary.
• Comprehensive training program for new Research Administrators with dedicated mentors.