Research Administrator Associate

Research Administrator Associate

Job Title - Research Administrator Associate

Department Name - Sponsored Projects Administration

Work Location - Lexington, KY

Grade Level - 45

Salary Range - $48,214-79,560/year

Type of Position - Staff

Position Time Status - Full-Time

Required Education - MA

Required Related Experience - 3 yrs

Physical Requirements - Sitting and typing at a computer workstation for extended periods of time.

Shift - Fully remote position Monday Friday; 8:00 am EST 5:00 pm EST

Job Summary - Shape the Future of Research Administration at the University of Kentucky Wildcat Wisdom, Kentucky Innovation Supporting Discoveries, Transforming Outcomes! Why Join Us? The University of Kentucky's Office of Sponsored Projects Administration (OSPA) is seeking a dedicated and skilled Research Administrator Associate. This vital role supports and enables groundbreaking research across the University.

About the Role: This position is eligible for remote work. The Research Administrator Associate will manage industry and federal clinical trial agreements and other contracts. The responsibilities include contract review and negotiation, collaboration with clinical trial study teams to ensure appropriate terms and allowable budgets, sponsored project account establishment, interpretation and implementation of University policies and procedures, sponsor regulations and State/Federal law, and tracking of cash received. This position will also provide responsive and appropriate administrative guidance to faculty, staff, and sponsor agencies.

A successful candidate will have the ability to understand, interpret, and research complex and varied regulations, think critically and work collegially in order to successfully resolve questions and issues for faculty, staff, and colleagues, communicate timely and professionally to a range of individuals, have the ability to multitask and prioritize, have a strong attention to detail, and have a willingness to be a lifelong learner.

Why Research Professionals Choose University of Kentucky Top 10% of Academic Medical Centers Nationwide: Recognized as a leader in research excellence and innovation. Forbes' Best Large Employers: Ranked among the Top 100 Employers Nationwide in 2024 and named one of Kentucky's Best Employers on Forbes' America's Best-In-State Employers list. 1 of 34 Universities Nationwide: Holds the prestigious trifecta of research designations in cancer, aging, and translational science. Flexible Remote Work Options: Enjoy the convenience of fully remote or hybrid roles while supporting groundbreaking research. Professional Development Opportunities: Engage in interdisciplinary collaborations, virtual conferences, and training programs to advance your career.

Want to learn more about the Department? OSPA is responsible for administering over $480 million in extramural grants and contracts awarded through the University of Kentucky Research Foundation. Services are available to all University faculty and staff and include: advice and assistance with budget preparation and other administrative requirements of proposals; proposal submission; review, negotiation and acceptance of awards; interpretation and information regarding sponsor policies and regulations; preparation of subcontract documents; administration of UK's Conflict of Interest Policy. More information about the department can be found at: OSPA.

Interested in what UK Benefits have to offer? The University of Kentucky is proud to offer a benefits package that helps us recruit and retain the very best faculty and staff. In addition to your take-home pay, your benefits package is a major component of your total compensation at UK. These benefits include our 200 percent match on eligible retirement contributions; competitive health, dental, and vision coverage; tuition benefits for classes at UK, and much more. To learn more about these benefits, please visit:

Ready to Make a Difference in Research Administration? Are you ready to take the next step in advancing research and innovation? Join us in UK's Office of Sponsored Projects Administration as the next dedicated Research Administrator Associate and play a pivotal role in supporting groundbreaking projects that shape the future.

The University of Kentucky uses equivalencies in determining if a potential applicant meets the minimum education and experience. Related experience can be substituted for education. Click here for more information about equivalencies:

Driving Research Excellence Apply Today! Multiple Positions Available

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? - No

Preferred Education/Experience - Certified Research Administrator preferred.

Deadline to Apply - 08/16/2026

Our University Community - We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus. The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status. Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

Posting Specific Questions

1. * Describe any previous experience reviewing and/or negotiating agreements, including work with clinical trials.
2. * Describe any previous experience managing contracts and/or grants.
3. * What is the nature of your experience with administering policy and/or regulation?

Applicant Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter