Associate Director, Sponsored Research Contracts

Southern Methodist University; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Methodist University seeks an Associate Director, Sponsored Project Contracts to lead negotiations, reviews, and administration of complex research agreements. Based on campus in Dallas, you will guide faculty and departments on contract terms, sponsor requirements, and risk management while supervising a team of contract professionals.

You will ensure compliance with federal regulations and university policies, develop templates and workflows, and support researchers across the

Qualifications

• Master’s degree is required; JD preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in sponsored programs in higher education.
• Experience negotiating research-related agreements with various sponsors.
• Strong knowledge of Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200) and federal regulations.
• Ability to interpret legal language and negotiate contracts.

Responsibilities

• Lead negotiation, review, drafting, and execution of sponsored research contracts and related agreements.
• Provide guidance to faculty and administrators on contractual matters and sponsor requirements.
• Supervise contract staff and manage workload and professional development.
• Assess risks and coordinate with GC, export controls, tech transfer, and risk management.
• Ensure compliance with 2 CFR 200, FAR, sponsor rules, and institutional policies.
• Develop templates, SOPs, negotiation guidance, and improve processes.
• Participate in professional education to maintain research administration expertise.
• Perform other duties and travel <10% as needed.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Time management

Risk assessment

Contract negotiation

Education

Master’s degree

Juris Doctor (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Adobe Acrobat

Contract management systems

DocuSign

Workday / ERP systems

Job description

Southern Methodist University seeks an Associate Director, Sponsored Project Contracts to lead negotiations, reviews, and administration of complex research agreements. Based on campus in Dallas, you will guide faculty and departments on contract terms, sponsor requirements, and risk management while supervising a team of contract professionals.

You will ensure compliance with federal regulations and university policies, develop templates and workflows, and support researchers across the