Associate Research Administrator

Job Summary

Provides administrative assistance and routine problem-solving in support of the unit's research programs and mission. Assistance may include the preparation &/or submission of routine research proposals, grants &/or contracts according to standard practice &/or general instruction. May assist with &/or complete proposal submissions, prepare information used in grant budgets, process and project financial transactions, &/or effort reporting activities.

Specific Responsibilities

• Completes pre-award administration of grant &/or contract activities.
  • Reviews solicitation & determines necessary components.
  • Organizes proposal, renewal and resubmission applications.
  • Completes NU OSR forms.
  • Completes entire application for smaller, less-complicated, simple, standard proposals.
• Completes post-award administration of research grants &/or contracts.
  • Reviews account establishment.
  • Reviews expenditures.
  • Tracks formal re-budgeting.
  • Provides data needed for the preparation of interim and final financial and technical progress reports.
  • Participates in account close out activities.
  • Maintains oversight of project under spending and overspending.

Financial

• Reviews &/or approves transactions.
• Reconciles standard budget & payroll information ensuring that appropriate sponsored accounts are charged.
• Prepares and coordinates signatures on 90 day letters required when transactions are not timely.

Compliance

• Resolves standard & routine compliance problems & issues involving associated NU policies & practices; local, state, federal, agency & sponsor rules, regulations & requirements regarding grant &/or contract administration.
• Becomes familiar with regulations involving research safety, animal subjects and human subjects.
• Alerts supervisor to potential higher risk compliance issues including research safety, animal subjects and human subjects.

Minimum Qualifications

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
• 1 year financial or administrative support experience in a research environment or other relevant experience.

Minimum Competencies

• Organization, time management, detail oriented
• Multi-tasking, communication

Benefits

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html.

Work-Life and Wellness

Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life’s challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development

Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you’re interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.