Sponsored Programs Specialist

Job DetailJob Title:Sponsored Programs SpecialistDepartment:62128-Clinical and Translation Res SvcsLocation:FarmingtonFTE%:1Shift1stSearch #:2027-167Closing Date:09/11/2026Recruiter:O'Donnell, Lorin E.Additional Links:This position is Benefit eligible; click here for an overview of available benefits.This position is covered by the UHP Bargaining Unit; click here to review the current UHP Contract.This position is in salary group UHP-12; click here to review the current UHP Pay PlanWhy UConn Health UConn Health is a vibrant, integrated academic medical center that is entering an era of unprecedented growth in all three areas of its mission: academics, research, and clinical care. A commitment to human health and well-being has been of utmost importance to UConn Health since the founding of the University of Connecticut schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine in 1961. Based on a strong foundation of groundbreaking research, first-rate education, and quality clinical care, we have expanded our medical missions over the decades. In just over 50 years, UConn Health has evolved to encompass more research endeavors, to provide more ways to access our superior care, and to innovate both practical medicine and our methods of educating the practitioners of tomorrow.At UConn Health, this class is responsible for providing financial and/or administrative management for the University's research and sponsored program (grants and contracts) activities in the pre-award phase.SUPERVISION RECEIVED:Works under limited supervision of the Director of Sponsored Program Services.SUPERVISION EXERCISED:May lead lower-level OCTR staff.EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:Manages and safeguards sponsored program funds by conducting pre-award proposal reviews, negotiating and processing of applications contracts and sub-contracts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with University policies and agency regulations; Resource for investigators and departmental administrators with proposal submissions, interpretation of complex laws, policies and regulations, contract negotiations, contract interpretations; Authorizes post-award changes to include redistribution of grant funds, extension of grant periods, carryover of un-obligated balances, authorization of pre-award cost and the coordination of "just-in-time" filings; Obtains approvals necessary for sponsored grants, contracts and other agreements; Analyzes and resolves grant and contract problems including funding, cost sharing, budgets, allowable expenses and coordinates account distribution and management; Liaison representing UConn Health in negotiations and discussions with outside funding sources and governing bodies; Analyzes and resolves legal and technical problems of contract interpretation covering such issues as intellectual property rights, material transfers, governing laws and fiscal and procedural constraints; Monitors activities of proposals; monitors and reviews grant reports and activities; Prepares and reconciles monthly reports of grants and contracts; prepares ad hoc reports; Prepares written award summary providing complete information to set up, administer and maintain an awarded contract in compliance with University policies and contracted statutes, regulations and procedures; Reviews and authorizes transactions; Serves as liaison between administration, faculty and granting agencies; Advises management on policy issues associated with management of extramural grants and contracts; Advises and guides investigators, department administrators, and staff in grant administration including interpretation of policies and regulations, assignment and distribution of grant funds; Works collaboratively to develop institutional policies and standard operational procedures; Maintains technical and professional knowledge and keeps up-to-date with relevant regulations; Performs related duties as required. MINIMUM QUALIFIATIONS REQUIREDKNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITY:In-depth knowledge of relevant Federal and State regulations to administer research programs.Strong knowledge of the University's policies regarding research.Strong knowledge of accounting principles and practices and multiple government accounting systems.Considerable knowledge of grants, contracts, primary funding sources and budget development.Knowledge of relevant Federal Circulars.Knowledge of and proficiency in electronic proposal submission and research database applications/systems.Ability to write and interpret technical contract language and understand its implications.Considerable interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively (written and oral).Advanced computer skills; proficiency in applicable word processing, database, and spreadsheet applicationsAbility to interpret complex regulations.Ability and flexibility to meet deadlines and accommodate changing priorities. EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:General Experience: Eight (8) years' experience in grants management, accounting and contract administration performing duties involved in monitoring and maintaining complex and diverse agreements and financial records.Substitution Allowed: Bachelor's degree in related field may be substituted for four (4) years of the general experience.Special Experience:One (1) year of the general experience working with Federal grants and contracts.Experience with Uniform Guidance, applicable Federal Circulars, NIH and NSF application processes, and other federal agencies and voluntary health organizations such as American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, etc.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:Previous management/supervisory experience in a related setting.Considerable executive or senior-level administrative experience in a complex academic medical center, healthcare, or research environment.Experience with research financial management, including budget oversight, reconciliation, and fiscal compliance activities.Clinical trial management.Advanced computer skills, including database management and reporting tools supporting research administration or financial operations.SCHEDULE: This position is full-time, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with a one-hour unpaid meal break.