Assistant Research Administrator
University of Pittsburgh
This entry-level position provides an immersive training experience in the field of research administration. The employee will follow a training program curriculum to gain baseline knowledge, apply this knowledge with supervised portfolio management, and expand this knowledge through other special projects. Examples of activities can include proposal review, budget development, and post-award project management. The employee will collaborate with supervisors, mentors, and fellow trainees to complete projects, gain experience, and develop professional skills that are applicable to roles within the field of research administration.
The ideal candidate should be growth-minded, thrive in a learning-focused environment, and enjoy solving complex problems and discovering challenging concepts. The candidate should be able to read and digest large amounts of information to evaluate and find solutions. Although direct experience in research administration is not required, the employee should have a background or education in one or more of the areas that apply to research administration: accounting/business, communications, project management, and regulatory compliance. Additional experience in a professional office or research environment is preferred but not required. This may include prior internships. Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite (Excel in particular) is preferred. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple deadlines will be a requirement of this role.
Upon completion of the training program, the employee will be prepared to pursue a variety of research administration roles that may be available in various departments. The employee will have established a strong foundation of research administration knowledge and a network of resources to support their professional growth at the University of Pittsburgh.
Job Summary
Performs pre- and post-award accounting duties for small grants and contracts. Prepares, negotiates, and monitors grants and contracts. Assists with maintaining award-related schedules, preparing government applications and reports, and policy and procedure interpretation. Monitors account activity and prepares routine financial documents.
Employee must be able to handle telephone, computer, and paper/pencil. Employee must have high level of comprehension, writing, reading, and communication skills. Employee must be familiar with basic computer software applications (including Microsoft Office Suite - with emphasis on Microsoft Excel) and internet use.
Job demands may require long periods of sitting, telephone and/or computer work, and interactions with other staff members.