Post Award Research Administrator

At the VCU Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation, our mission is to foster transformative research, discovery, and innovation at Virginia Commonwealth University through excellence in service. About the VCU Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies (IDAS) The Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies (IDAS) at Virginia Commonwealth University is a premier hub for scientific discovery, dedicated to advancing multidisciplinary research and training on the neuroscience of addictions and related neurobehavioral disorders. Located in the heart of Richmond, IDAS bridges the gap between the laboratory and clinical practice, utilizing cutting‑edge brain‑imaging technology and collaborative clinical studies to understand how addiction impacts the brain and to develop life‑changing treatments. As a vital part of a nationally renowned public research institution, we foster an "UNcommon" environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation in public health. We invite dedicated professionals to join our team in addressing one of society’s most pressing challenges through rigorous science, compassionate education, and a commitment to community well‑being. Duties & Responsibilities Responsible for sponsored research post‑award administration and support of internally funded research projects. Provide post‑award financial and administrative support to research faculty at the individual award level with close attention to adherence of all applicable Sponsor, institutional, state and federal policies and procedures. Manage post‑award activities in support of an assigned portfolio of grants and contracts within the department. Take initiative to learn and use knowledge of grant and contract management rules and regulations, technical expertise, and analytical skills. Perform regular review, reconciliation and projection of award finances; prepare adjustments and corrections to award budgets; prepare financial reports; and ensure all financial requirements have been met at award completion and close out. Track deadlines for Research Performance Progress Reports; prompt faculty well in advance; prepare and submit required reports to various funding agencies. Interact regularly with and provide high‑quality customer service to faculty members conducting sponsored research. Ensure adherence to quality standards and all policies and award regulations; create high‑quality written documents as needed. Upon award acceptance, define account establishment parameters, including billing and reporting requirements, budget and cost sharing obligations. Oversee the award set‑up process in VCU’s financial system; distribute award information to PIs, co‑PIs and relevant staff and other VCU academic units. Monitor award spending and work with the PRO / CHRI administrative team to ensure accurate and timely allocations for budgeted personnel. Review and reconcile award expenditures and budgets, adjusting as necessary; project and forecast future award expenditures; manage budget and spending tracking, reporting and compliance timelines through the lifecycle of the grant or contract. Communicate with PIs on a regular basis regarding budget and expense adjustments and revisions. Work with VCU’s Office of Grants & Contracts to complete financial reports to be sent to sponsor, as required by the award terms and conditions. Monitor compliance with agency and University regulations regarding reporting. Coordinate and submit requests for No Cost Extensions, Carryover, Re‑budgeting requests, changes in scope, and other changes to the award; ensure all requests are made in compliance with sponsor guidelines and University policies. Facilitate the approval of invoices to pay subcontractors. Apply federal and university rules to management of effort allocation appropriately for individuals compensated whole or in part from federal awards. Assist in transferring awards out of the university. Work with the WCCTR/IDAS team to close out all funded projects consistent with university process and timelines. Follow and adhere to SOPs related to post‑award functions. Assist PIs with non‑financial report submissions, as necessary. Qualifications Performs related responsibilities as required. Minimum Qualifications Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU. Only applicants who do not require current or future sponsorship for employment will be considered. Experience & Skills 2 years’ experience in an academic institution, preferably medical research. 2 years’ experience in post‑award research administration or other closely related research position. 1-year previous experience in financial management. Ability to lead multiple submission processes with and for busy clinical providers/investigators. Ability to work under tight deadlines. Very strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience with VCU sponsored program systems. Prior experience in all types of federal and foundation funding mechanisms. Salary Range 50,000 - 63,000 Benefits All full‑time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax‑deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well‑being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more. Unit VP Research MBU Department Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies (IDAS) FLSA Exemption Status Exempt Hours per Week 40 Restricted Position Yes ORP Eligible No Flexible Work Arrangement Hybrid University Job Title 34124N - Assoc Research Administrator 1 #J-18808-Ljbffr