Research Administrator

University of California, Irvine•Irvine, CA

16h•Onsite

About The Position

The UCI Brunson Center for Translational Vision Research (BCTVR) is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Research Administrator to join our administrative team. Under the general direction of the Associate Research Director, the Research Administrator will play a critical role in managing financial aspects of research grants, ensuring compliance, and supporting faculty with research administration.

Requirements

Working knowledge of finance policies, practices, and systems.
Ability to gather reasonably retrievable information to organize and perform financial analysis assignments.
Demonstrated ability to effectively present information verbally and in writing clearly and concisely.
Demonstrated ability using spreadsheet and database software, specifically Microsoft Office Suite for financial analysis, fiscal management, and financial reports.
Demonstrated interpersonal skills at all levels within the unit; excellent service orientation and critical thinking skills; and attention to detail.
Demonstrated ability using organizational skills to multi-task in a high-volume environment.
Demonstrated ability to respond with flexibility and efficiency to frequent changes in task focus, competing priorities, and multiple and sometimes competing deadlines.
Ability to work well with others, in both one-on-one capacity and in group settings.
Strong computer skills using MS Office Suite, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Economics and / or equivalent experience / training.
Experience with financial, purchasing, personnel, and payroll systems.
Must be able to provide proof of work authorization

Nice To Haves

Intermediate knowledge and understanding of internal control practices and their impact on protecting University resources.
Experience working in an academic medical setting.

Responsibilities

Oversee post-award financial administration of research grants, including budget preparation, financial reporting, reconciliations, and cost accounting. Ensure compliance with NIH and institutional policies.
Maintain salary worksheets, process payroll distributions, and track personnel effort on grants to ensure accurate funding allocations.
Prepare and reconcile financial reports, track expenditures, analyze budget variances, and provide recommendations to optimize resource utilization.
Process and monitor travel, purchasing, and reimbursement requests for faculty, staff, trainees, and visiting scholars. Review documentation for accuracy and compliance with university and sponsor policies, track reimbursement status, and resolve issues to ensure timely payment.
Manage fund allocations and cost accounting to ensure proper usage of grant funds. Monitor adherence to university policies and sponsor guidelines.
Work in a dynamic team environment, demonstrating effective problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently.