Director, Sponsored Research

At Sage Bionetworks, we believe in the power of open science and interdisciplinary collaboration to create a new vision of human health. We strive for actionable biomedical insights through the responsible sharing and reuse of data, all guided by our deep scientific expertise and diligent governance controls.

We're a dynamic, adaptable team, and at Sage, we highly value individuals who can flexibly navigate various roles and functions. Diversity in experiences, backgrounds, and identities is essential for our rich culture of learning and collaboration. Our partnerships, both within Sage and with external communities, are founded on principles of trust, transparency, and a commitment to growth. Together, we are leaving a lasting imprint on the fields of science and medicine.

The position is a key role reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer. The Director, Sponsored Research oversees the pre-award and non-financial post award activities for the compliant administration of externally sponsored grants, contracts and ancillary agreements. The Director will oversee a small team that reviews, negotiates and accepts sponsored projects for the organization while also maintaining a small portfolio.

Key Responsibilities:

• Draft, analyze, negotiate and execute a broad range of sponsored research agreements and contracts using a combination of expert-level skill, experience and knowledge of organizational, sponsor, and federal regulations and policies (including but not limited to subawards, confidentiality agreements, non-disclosure agreements, master service agreements and vendor agreements).

• Coordinate the preparation and submission of proposals to various sponsor types including federal, foundation and industry.

• Serves as a subject matter expert and conduit to key stakeholders and collaborators. Provides comprehensive and concise advice and analysis on issues related to sponsored research contracting.

• Educate and partner with key individuals to ensure compliance with the Uniform Guidance (UG) Procurement regulations.

• Responsible for the oversight of the annual Conflict of Interest disclosure process, System for Award Management (SAM) registration and the Federal Demonstration Partnership (FDP) Clearinghouse.

• Prepare monthly, quarterly and ad hoc reports for leadership and the Board of Directors as requested.

Wed love to hear from you if you have:

• Enthusiasm for open science and collaboration

• A Bachelors degree and 6 years of relevant experience in research administration with 3+ of those years submitting and managing federal awards including the National Institute of Health (NIH).

• Progressively responsible experience in contracts, research or grants administration in a university or directly related business or organization.

• In-depth knowledge of federal regulations and contract management as they relate to institutions of higher education, medical centers and private organizations.

• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) is a plus

Job Functions and Physical Requirements

The following cognitive and physical activities outline the essential functions required for successful job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to fulfill these functions.

Physical Demands

• Extended periods of sitting at a desk and using a computer.

• Repeated wrist, hand, and finger movements.

• Requires clear vision for tasks like data analysis, transcribing, computer use, and reading.

• Occasionally lifting or moving objects weighing up to 10 pounds.

Cognitive Demands

• Able to work effectively under deadlines.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Attention to detail and accuracy.

• Flexibility to adapt to changing environments, priorities and multitask.

Additional Requirements

• Travel is required a minimum of two times per year for on-site events in Seattle, WA.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

• Works well in a team and maintains professionalism.

• Follows company policies, procedures, and relevant laws and regulations.

Note: This list is not exhaustive and may be subject to modification as job duties evolve.

About Us

Sage Bionetworks is a nonprofit biomedical research organization that was founded in Seattle in 2009. We focus on advancing human health through open science practices and radical collaboration, with a view to breaking down existing silos in science and technology. Through our work, we guide responsible data sharing and reuse, benchmark scientific methods and results, and empower participants to be active partners in research. We are a bold team of scientists, engineers, product developers, governance specialists and business experts, working to bring data and communities together in unique ways that accelerate medical progress. As a growing organization, Sage is supported through a dynamic portfolio of competitive research grants, commercial partnerships, and philanthropic contributions.

Sage Bionetworks is pleased to offer a comprehensive benefit package, competitive to both commercial and not-for-profit life science organizations. The plan includes: health, dental, vision, life, AD&D and long term disability benefits; paid time off; a retirement plan; flexible spending accounts; a shared incentives plan, voluntary long term care insurance, and other voluntary products. Additional information can found here: