Lead-Research Administrator (Psychology & Biobehavioral Sciences)

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital•Memphis, TN

20d

About The Position

The Lead-Research Administrator independently supports investigator proposal submissions in response to unsolicited application guidelines, requests for applications, public announcements, and requests for proposals from sponsors of varying complexity. The role negotiates standard and complex terms and conditions for federal contracts and other non-industrial sponsored agreements in accordance with institutional policy and practice, while ensuring programmatic and fiscal responsiveness. It also prepares or initiates document templates and other resources. The position manages grant and sponsored-program administration, including proposal development and submission, budgets and justifications, subawards, award lifecycle management, reporting, and expenditure allowability. The Lead-Research Administrator coordinates with investigators, research groups, and other cross-functional stakeholders, and leads process improvements through the development and implementation of procedures, policies, and systems. People managers also mentor and develop team members. The role requires attention to detail, strong communication and technology skills, and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree.
At least 5 years of experience managing multiple processes within financial administration as applicable to grants and contracts.
Experience working with cross-functional teams.
Proven performance in an earlier role.
Ability to think critically, draw insights, connect information, and solve complex problems independently.
Strong communication skills, including the ability to explain complex ideas to diverse audiences and influence others.
Understanding of contract terms and conditions, contract management, agreements, and negotiation; ability to draft, review, negotiate, amend, and interpret general agreements.
Knowledge of relevant regulatory compliance and documentation requirements, and ability to apply applicable laws, regulations, and best practices.
Familiarity with grant documents, electronic grants processes, and standard budgeting procedures.
Deep understanding of research administration policies, practices, and concepts, and ability to review complex contract and grant proposals and verify required compliance approvals.
Knowledge of financial systems, tools, and processes; strong understanding of financial reporting and budgeting.
Ability to evaluate reports and data, manage complex accounting and reporting issues, and develop documentation, procedures, and instructions.
Ability to prioritize workload, adapt to change, anticipate roadblocks, and manage multiple projects.
People managers only: some experience managing or mentoring people, including setting goals, giving feedback, coaching, planning workload, and supporting team development.

Nice To Haves

Direct involvement in the grant submission process in a research setting.
Experience with NIH-related grant submission and administration.

Responsibilities

Manage or lead operations related to grant and sponsored-program administration through planning and resource management.
Manage grant and sponsored-program activities, including reviewing proposal documents and budgets, monitoring subawards, and managing award lifecycles.
Support grant-related activities, including proposal preparation and cross-functional coordination for proposal development and submission.
Develop, prepare, revise, and finalize project budgets and budget justifications.
Proactively coordinate with cross-functional teams, including principal investigators and research groups, to prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
Review award progress, monitor project changes, and ensure expenditures are allowable.
Lead team process improvement by developing and implementing standard operating procedures, policies, and systems.
For people managers, mentor team members through advice, coaching, and training opportunities.
Perform other duties as assigned to meet department and institutional goals and objectives.
Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
Independently support investigator proposal submissions and negotiate terms and conditions for federal contracts and other non-industrial sponsored agreements.