Research Solutions Specialist - TERM

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

8h • Hybrid

About The Position

This role is a high-level, versatile expert. Provides critical surge capacity and strategic problem-solving across the FAS research enterprise with two primary functions: 1) Research Portfolio Management. Covers RPM/Sr RPM role during vacancies; 2) Concierge Navigation. Minimizes administrative friction for PIs and RPMs by interpreting complex policies and providing clear resolution paths. Bridges gap between PI, unit, and central offices, integrating problem solving. Profile: Fully experienced professional. Independently perform complex tasks. May serve as a resource to colleagues. Knowledge: Apply professional knowledge and understanding of concepts. Principles and technical capabilities to execute complex analyses and projects. Complexity: Independently work on complex projects of medium to large scope. May refer to precedents and defined parameters. Provide technical advice and problem resolution for a school/unit community on varied issues. Autonomy: Complete work independently, exercising sound judgement within established guidelines. Seek general guidance only when needed. Interaction: Collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders to address sensitive matters and work to build consensus. May provide guidance to colleagues and deliver trainings.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant work experience
• Advanced knowledge of sponsored research regulations
• Expert lifecycle award management skills, proposal and budget preparation, advanced post-award skills including financial analysis and reconciliation
• Familiarity with federal sponsor regulations and ability to learn complex policy
• Strong written/verbal communication skills, advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities; ability to distill complex regulations into strategic advice
• Ability to interact with stakeholders of all types (faculty, researchers, university administrators and to convene and motivate problem-solving teams
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, advanced Excel skills
• Working knowledge of financial principles, budget management, financial analysis

Responsibilities

• Manage research portfolios with an emphasis on post-award management
• Collaborate directly with PIs to provide strategic financial oversight and ensure compliance with sponsor guidelines
• Partner with local units and RPMs to facilitate audit responses and ensure all documentation meets federal and institutional standards
• Mentor and lead the onboarding and one-on-one coaching of new research administration personnel within FAS to standardize best practices
• Act as a dedicated troubleshooter for PIs and RPMs on complex and/or multi-departmental research administration issues
• Manage the escalation of sensitive or urgent matters by providing decision-makers with a well-researched briefing of the issue and proposed solutions
• Provide expert advice on unconventional research scenarios where standard policy application is unclear, balancing operational needs with compliance
• Develop decision trees, FAQs and guides to simplify and communicate complex institutional processes
• Identify systemic workflow bottlenecks and recommend process improvement to reduce the administrative burden on the researchers

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level