Research Administrator Senior (Hybrid Work Arrangement)

Senior Research Administrator

Since 1841, the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) has been the heart of The Michigan Difference, educating young leaders through a rich liberal arts curriculum and creating new knowledge through world-class research and scholarship. We offer more than 100-degree programs in over 75 academic departments and programs. The University of Michigan's College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) is seeking a Senior Research Administrator to join our dedicated Finance team. Comprising over 100 professionals, this team provides comprehensive financial, procurement, and research administration support across more than 100 units within the college.

In this role, you'll provide expert pre- and post-award support, mentor team members, and oversee portfolio management services for faculty. Your duties will include handling complex tasks, offering training, and collaborating with functional leads to ensure smooth and efficient operations. You will assist faculty and administrators throughout the entire grant lifecycle, from preparation and submission to post-award administration. This includes managing portfolios, budgeting, projections, and serving as the financial liaison between faculty, staff, and administration. You will also monitor grant submissions, alert management to financial and administrative impacts, and provide guidance to other LSA business office team members.

This position requires excellent interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues across various university offices and a flexible, resourceful approach to adapting to evolving organizational needs. As part of a collaborative community, you will have ample opportunities for professional growth. Additionally, you will receive support from a peer mentor to help you integrate into the LSA Finance team and navigate the complexities of the role.

Flexible Work Arrangements

As part of the University of Michigan's Future Work Initiative and LSA Finance's Flexible Work Arrangements, you may work either on campus or remotely. There is a requirement to come to campus as necessary throughout the year to facilitate intentional collaboration, team building, and connections. This includes times when the project or work would benefit from on-campus presence, or when requested by the customer. Any travel planning or expenses related to coming to campus are the responsibility of the employee.

Responsibilities*

• Pre-Award Management: Independently coordinate and manage the administrative research process, including creating complex proposals. Tasks include locating relevant materials, formatting and editing proposals, assisting in the preparation of multi-year budgets, and developing budget justifications. You will be responsible for ensuring the timely routing of proposals through the institutional approval process.
• Post-Award Financial Oversight: Manage financial aspects of post-award activities, such as projecting and updating encumbrances, conducting faculty portfolio analysis, reviewing financial transactions, and ensuring that expenditures align with grant funding guidelines. You will also compile and review financial information related to journal entries, vouchers, and standard transactions (materials, equipment, support staff, travel). You will resolve mid-level compliance issues and collaborate with management on more complex issues.
• Compliance & Best Practices Guidance: Serve as a resource for faculty and staff on post-award best practices, including rebudgeting, report preparation, and renewal/extension paperwork. You will advise faculty on the proper use of grant funds and assist in navigating compliance-related concerns.
• Process Improvement & Mentorship: Assist in the development and implementation of administrative procedures to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Act as a mentor to LSA business office team members, providing support in problem-solving and decision-making. You will contribute to fostering a positive team environment and help maintain high morale.
• Stakeholder Communication: Maintain strong communication with faculty, LSA administrators, the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP), and Sponsored Programs. Interpret and apply internal and external funding regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance.

Overall, your role will require flexibility, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to build rapport across various teams while maintaining high standards of work and communication.

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• 5 or more years of progressively responsible research administration and financial and budget management
• Advanced proficiency in both pre- and post-award sponsored project lifecycle
• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office and Google Suite collaboration tools
• Advanced-level proficiency in Excel and financial management platforms
• Knowledge of federal funding guidelines and sponsor systems such as grants.gov
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Proficient in conveying complex information clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally, to diverse stakeholders.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

As one of the world's great liberal arts and sciences colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.

To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision.

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.