Research Administrator

MBL•Woods Hole, MA

15h

About The Position

The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) is seeking an experienced full-time Research Administrator to support Principal Investigators (PIs) with sponsored and non-sponsored research administration. The Research Administrator serves as the primary administrative partner for an assigned group of PIs and oversees each PI’s full funding portfolio, including pre-award and post-award administrative processes. The role works closely with the Director of Research Administration (DRA) and the Director of Sponsored Programs (DSP). The position manages portfolios that may include federal and non-federal grants, contracts, subawards, gifts, endowment and discretionary accounts, startup funds, and other internal accounts. It coordinates proposal development, award management, compliance and audit preparation, budgeting, forecasts, personnel-related administration, and communication of MBL policies. This full-time role may be performed entirely in the office or on a hybrid schedule combining in-office and remote days. The starting salary range is $70,000–$85,000, commensurate with education and experience. MBL offers medical and dental coverage, paid time off, a retirement plan, and other benefits. Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter. MBL is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and at least three years of experience in research administration, preferably in a nonprofit or academic setting, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Proficiency with financial and administrative software, such as NetSuite, InfoEd, and UKG.
Advanced Excel skills.
Knowledge of basic accounting principles.
Experience with federal grants, such as NIH and NSF.
Demonstrated experience developing and managing budgets across sponsored and non-sponsored funds.
Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Certified Research Administrator (CRA) credential.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned PIs’ complete funding portfolios, including sponsored and non-sponsored accounts.
Maintain a consolidated view of account balances, commitments, and end dates; project salary and expense needs; identify funding gaps and expiring balances; and advise PIs on appropriate charges consistent with sponsor terms, donor restrictions, and MBL policy.
Assist PIs with federal and non-federal grant proposals by interpreting sponsor guidelines, developing budgets, drafting administrative sections, and ensuring sponsor compliance.
Support management of grants, subawards, contracts, gifts, and other awards.
Monitor budgets, review expenditures for allowability, process cost transfers, support effort certification, prepare financial reports, and manage award closeout in accordance with award terms.
Maintain knowledge of federal and non-federal grant rules, including Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200) and agency-specific terms and conditions.
Assist with preparing audit documents, including for Single Audits.
Coordinate the annual budgeting process for assigned PIs across funding sources, monitor budget execution, and update spending forecasts.
Collaborate with Human Resources and other departments on staffing and HR-related matters for research projects.
Manage salary allocations and payroll distributions so personnel costs are charged to appropriate accounts.
Work with the DRA and DSP to communicate MBL policies and practices to PIs.