Research Administration Director – Friedman School

Tufts University•Boston, MA

64d•$141,000 - $211,500

About The Position

As the only graduate school of nutrition in North America, the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy provides cutting-edge research and education—from individuals to food systems, and from genetics to policy. Read about our pledge to inclusive excellence, celebrate our wins with us, and explore our goals. You’ll be joining a leading institution for evidence-based nutrition education, research, and public impact. Our employee benefits will make you feel welcome at Tufts, and our strong sense of community will make you want to stay. If you are a team player and passionate about your work, we want you to read further. This position plays a critical role in advancing the school’s research mission by ensuring compliance, optimizing processes, and fostering collaboration across departments and university offices.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 10 years of related experience
At least 5 years of seasoned supervisory and management experience
Knowledge and experience with international program administration and oversight
Expertise in both pre-award electronic application processes and post-award financial management
Proven ability to manage compliance with federal government grants and contracts; interpret and apply university and sponsor policies and procedures
Experience with electronic grants management systems and enterprise research administration systems
Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and internet research tools
Manage complexity and solve problems effectively
Collaborate across teams and departments
Instill trust with direct reports and colleagues
Navigate conflict constructively
Lead work through direction, delegation, and problem-solving

Nice To Haves

Certified Research Administrator (CRA) designation
Familiarity with Tufts systems and processes
Experience in institutional policy development

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a strategic plan for sponsored project administration aligned with university-wide principles.
Draft and review internal policies; define school-level policies, procedures, and tools for pre- and post-award management.
Participate in pilot initiatives and support implementation of new university-wide systems.
Assess and optimize RA resources to ensure efficient workflows and adequate coverage.
Manage RA staff: define roles, onboard new hires, set goals, coach, mentor, and provide career development opportunities.
Provide portfolio backstopping as needed.
Oversee proposal development and submission; approve costs/rates and cost share; track submissions and awards; devise strategies to grow and diversify funding.
Facilitate complex proposals and awards, including multi-department and multi-school initiatives.
Oversee fiscal management of sponsored projects; assess synergies with Tufts Support Services (TSS) and Budget Center.
Serve as the primary resource for resolving complex pre- and post-award issues; identify risks and implement mitigation strategies.