Research Administrator

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Please submit a resume and a cover letter.

Position Summary:

The Research Administrator in the School of Social Sciences (SoSS) reports directly to the SoSS Director of Research Administration and provides comprehensive support for pre- and post-award research activities and services for the school's departments, centers, and programs.

Hiring Range: $75,000 - $80,000

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree

• In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted

• 2+ years

• In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted

Minimum Requirements:

• Intermediate proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, email, and database software programs

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment

• Meticulous attention to detail in grant applications, budget monitoring, and regulatory compliance

• Working knowledge of research administration guidelines, regulations, and policies

• Aptitude for identifying and resolving issues related to grant administration and compliance

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an emphasis on customer service and stakeholder engagement

• Proficiency in problem-solving and critical thinking

Essential Functions

Pre-Award Responsibilities:

• Assist researchers in crafting competitive grant proposals by reviewing funding opportunities and interpreting application guidelines.

• Develop detailed project budgets aligned with funding agency requirements and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

• Coordinate proposal submission logistics and provide technical assistance on online submission systems.

• Facilitate productive relationships with faculty, administrators, and external partners to foster effective communication.

• Manage multiple grant applications, meeting deadlines, and addressing potential challenges.

• Communicate with funding agencies, attend informational sessions, and utilize grant management software for efficient submission.

• Maintain comprehensive records of grant proposals and participate in strategic planning initiatives for grant-seeking efforts.

Post-Award Responsibilities:

• Offer support and assistance to Principal Investigators (PIs) and research teams to address post-award challenges.

• Serve as a liaison between PIs, funding agencies, research compliance offices, and stakeholders.

• Oversee grant applications, manage budgets, ensure compliance, and facilitate post-award activities.

• Work closely with PIs to manage grant budgets, track expenditures, and ensure alignment with approved budgets.

• Monitor grant expenditures for compliance with regulations and sponsor requirements.

• Collaborate with research compliance offices to address compliance issues and maintain comprehensive documentation of grant activities.

• Review account setup, approve expenditures, monitor budgets, and provide data for reports.

• Reconcile grant accounts, document expenditures, and identify the need for no-cost extensions.

• Facilitate closeout for completed grants, including financial reporting and equipment disposition.

Additional Functions

• Uphold ethical standards in research administration, ensuring integrity, confidentiality, and responsible resource stewardship.

• Provide training and guidance to faculty, research staff, and departmental administrators on post-award policies and best practices.

• Collaborate with other administrative units to streamline pre- and post-award processes for seamless grant administration.

• Manage and maintain records, files, and reports related to research administration activities.

• Manage financial support in the form of stipends and reimbursements for participants of the Research Experiences for Undergrads (REU) program

• Other duties as assigned by the SoSS Director of Research Administration.

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.