Director C, Business and Finance, Research Services
About The Position
The Director of Research Administration leads and manages all financial, operational, and administrative aspects of the Department of Surgery’s research operations across Perelman School of Medicine (PSOM) and the affiliated hospitals (HUP, PAH, PMC). This role oversees pre- and post-award administration for a diverse $26M+ research portfolio, including basic science, translational and clinical research, and clinical trials. Additionally, they manage regulatory submissions (IRB, IACUC, RIS) and directly support research activities for key faculty with over $8M in annual funding. This position is responsible for leading a team that supports the full spectrum of research administration, including budgeting, financial reporting for sponsored projects, financial analysis, and compliance. In addition to financial oversight, the Director plays a key role in the administrative and operational infrastructure that supports research activities across the department. This includes optimizing internal processes, managing staffing and resource allocation, and ensuring alignment with institutional policies and strategic goals. The Director collaborates closely with faculty, departmental and divisional leadership, and institutional partners to ensure that research initiatives are not only financially sustainable but also operationally efficient and administratively sound. In partnership with the CFO, the Director also oversees the administration of endowments, gifts, and institutional funds.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science and 7 to 10 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
- This position is contingent upon grant funding.
- Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made.
Nice To Haves
- A master’s degree is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Leads and manages all financial, operational, and administrative aspects of the Department of Surgery’s research operations across Perelman School of Medicine (PSOM) and the affiliated hospitals (HUP, PAH, PMC).
- Oversees pre- and post-award administration for a diverse $26M+ research portfolio, including basic science, translational and clinical research, and clinical trials.
- Manages regulatory submissions (IRB, IACUC, RIS).
- Directly supports research activities for key faculty with over $8M in annual funding.
- Leads a team that supports the full spectrum of research administration, including budgeting, financial reporting for sponsored projects, financial analysis, and compliance.
- Plays a key role in the administrative and operational infrastructure that supports research activities across the department.
- Optimizes internal processes, manages staffing and resource allocation, and ensures alignment with institutional policies and strategic goals.
- Collaborates closely with faculty, departmental and divisional leadership, and institutional partners to ensure that research initiatives are not only financially sustainable but also operationally efficient and administratively sound.
- Oversees the administration of endowments, gifts, and institutional funds in partnership with the CFO.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits
- Flexible spending accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
- Tuition assistance for employee, spouse, and dependent children at Penn and other institutions
- Generous retirement plans (Basic, Matching, and Supplemental) with pre-tax or Roth basis options
- Substantial amount of time away from work (vacations, personal affairs, illness, injury, family time)
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Wellness and Work-life Resources
- Professional and Personal Development resources
- Access to a wide range of University resources, cultural and recreational activities
- Discounts on arts and entertainment, transportation, mortgages, goods, and services
- Flexible work options (non-traditional work hours, locations, and/or job structures)
- Forgivable loan for eligible employees interested in buying a home or currently residing in West Philadelphia
- Adoption Assistance reimbursement for qualified expenses
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
