Research Finance and Project Coordinator (New Position)

University of Ottawa Heart Institute; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Ottawa Heart Institute seeks a Research Finance and Project Coordinator to oversee large-scale research initiatives. This role will manage project finances, ensure compliance with funding regulations, and support the development of funding applications, contributing to the institute's national and international research impact.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in research project management.
• Professional designation, CPA or PMP is an asset.
• Strong knowledge of Canadian research funding landscape.

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee complex research projects and budgets.
• Ensure compliance with funding agency policies and financial oversight.
• Lead post-award management for major research initiatives.

Skills

Project management skills

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Critical thinking

Education

University degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or Commerce

Tools

MS Office 365

Financial systems

Job description

Research Finance and Project Coordinator (New Position)

Posted date

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Deadline

As soon as possible

Job type

Permanent

Work hours

Full-Time

Competition number

APF2523

$75,000 to $95,000/year

Supervision

Director of Finance

Unit/Department

Finance and Administration

Job purpose

Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Research Finance and Project Coordinator provides critical coordination and oversight for large-scale institutional research initiatives, with emphasis on operating and infrastructure projects. Bridging research administration and financial analysis, this role supports the full lifecycle of research projects – pre and post award – by facilitating collaboration between internal departments, the University of Ottawa, funding agencies and partner institutions.

The incumbent applies a broad range of project management tools, financial planning techniques, and analytical skills to ensure projects remain compliant, well-managed, and strategically aligned. Contributing to internal and external financial reporting, stakeholder engagement, and the optimization of research funding processes, this position ensures compliance with policies, manages, and optimizes institutional research projects and strengthens the institution’s national and international research impact.

Key responsibilities

Project management and stakeholder coordination:

• Collaborate to support the development and management of competitive funding applications aligned with organizational strategic priorities.
• Lead post-award project management for major institutional projects, including oversight and tracking of budgets, progress reporting, risk mitigation, and financial planning.
• Provide expert interpretation of funding agency policies,
• Monitor research project performance,
• Review and negotiate inter-institutional agreements for multi-institutional projects, funding agreements and amendments
• Manage a diversified portfolio of complex research projects

Financial and compliance oversight:

• Oversee the financial components of research projects, ensuring transactions and accounting records are compliant and meeting audit requirements
• Conduct analyses, budgeting, forecasting and develop financial reporting tools,

Policy development and strategic initiatives:

• Optimize research project and internal funding management processes.
• Assist in the development of policies and best practices

Requirements

Knowledge and skills

• University degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Commerce, or equivalent.
• Professional designation, CPA or PMP; pursuing this or an equivalent certification
• High proficiency with technology applications including MS Office 365, Microsoft Teams, financial systems, database, and web-based applications.
• Working knowledge of project management principles, financial planning, and compliance regulations.
• Strong understanding of Canadian research funding landscape (i.e.: Tri-Agency, CFREF, CFI and ORF).
• Demonstrated high degree of aptitude for critical thinking coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving skills and proficiency with written and oral communication.
• Ability to analyze risks, resolve complex challenges, and make strategic recommendations.
• Detail and results oriented including the ability to summarize financial information, highlight salient points in simple terms and work within tight deadlines.
• Superior interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively, build consensus, maintain confidentiality, exhibit sensitivity to the needs and interests of a variety of stakeholders, and support the functioning of a diverse project team.,
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in and contribute to an integrated and collaborative team environment and to apply a positive team approach to working with colleagues. negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in research project management, preferably in a health care or research environment.
• Working knowledge of full cycle financial and research grant accounting.
• Experience managing large-scale, complex research projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Experience in preparing research funding applications, and drafting inter-institutional agreements is an asset.

Applications from Indigenous persons, members of racialized minorities, persons with disabilities, women, members of the LGBTQ + community, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with equitable, diverse and inclusive communities are strongly encouraged.

According to government policy, all qualified candidates are invited to apply; however, preference will be given to Canadians and permanent residents. When submitting your application, please indicate if you are legally entitled to work in Canada.

The University of Ottawa Heart Institute is committed to ensuring barrier-free selection processes and work environments. Accommodations will be provided in all parts of the hiring process relating to any specialty requirements. Please notify us of any accommodations that you require – any information you provide will be handled respectfully and in complete confidence.

The successful candidate will be required, prior to the start of employment, to complete mandatory organizational training available online, and provide the following: an official piece of photo identification and a satisfactory Criminal Record Check and proof of COVID-19 vaccine.