Research Portfolio Manager

Harvard T.H. Chan School Of Public Health - Cambridge, MA

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Cambridge, MA

About the position

The Research Portfolio Manager (RPM) in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology is responsible for providing comprehensive pre- and post-award support to Principal Investigators (PIs), postdoctoral fellows, and students. This role involves managing the full life cycle of funding sources, ensuring compliance with regulations, and facilitating effective communication among lab members. The RPM will play a crucial role in obtaining funding for innovative research and will have opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the department and university.

Responsibilities

• Establish relationships with PIs, Lab Administrators, and lab members; maintain effective communication and protect confidential information.
• Support PIs with proposal preparation, including budget development and assembly of supporting documentation.
• Shepherd proposals through the school and University proposal review and submission process.
• Facilitate award setup with the Office for Sponsored Programs.
• Schedule non-financial reports in the Grants Management Application Suite (GMAS).
• Ensure compliance with federal regulations and University, school, and sponsor policies.
• Notify PIs of funding opportunities and provide necessary information and application forms.
• Analyze and report sponsored funding trends.
• Manage designated funding for PIs and their lab members, including complex financial management and compliance.
• Conduct monthly detailed financial analysis of portfolios and provide consulting to PIs.
• Strategize with PIs on resource and personnel allocations; monitor balances and reconcile accounts.
• Review new awards, set up budgets, and provide guidance on policy with the PI and Office for Sponsored Programs.
• Review and approve financial transactions, such as reimbursements and corporate card payments.
• Facilitate the effort certification process and advise the PI on related policies.
• Provide guidance to lab administrators on finance and sponsored research matters.
• Implement local procedures, recommend process improvements, and resolve issues related to research funding.
• Advise and assist PIs with sponsor policies and programmatic reporting requirements.

Requirements

• A minimum of three years' experience in pre- or post-award management.
• Excellent interpersonal and verbal and written communication skills.
• Associates degree in Accounting or Business.
• Exceptional customer service skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Computer proficiency with Excel and a strong knowledge of MS Office suite and current technologies.

Nice-to-haves

• Procurement and/or accounting experience preferred.
• Experience with Harvard systems and procedures preferred, including Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, HART, and B2P.
• Strong attention to detail, ability to multitask, and work towards deadlines.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year, 12 accrued sick days, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess, 3 personal days, and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program providing 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and public transportation passes.
• Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, and discounts on services.