Director of Grants & Contracts - Research Leadership

University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Knoxville (TN); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville seeks a Director of Grants and Contracts to lead the Division of Research Administration’s Award group, directing staff and processes to support faculty and researchers in securing and administering sponsored projects.

Reporting to the SAVCRA, the role involves collaboration with senior leadership, policy development, and national association engagement to advance UT’s research portfolio and external partnerships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required.
• 10 years of extensive experience in an office of sponsored programs administration in an academic, research institute, foundation, or national laboratory environment.
• Strong leadership, communication, and regulatory knowledge.
• Experience negotiating and administering various grants and contracts.

Responsibilities

• Provide direction and management of the Award group to maximize service and grow the research portfolio.
• Oversee hiring, promotions, and salary recommendations; assign work and develop staff.
• Develop training and ensure staff provide timely guidance to faculty and researchers.
• Represent the division and UT in national organizations and policy discussions.
• Ensure compliance with federal/state regulations and internal university policies.

Skills

Staff leadership

Policy knowledge

Regulatory compliance

Negotiation skills

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Master's Degree

Tools

Grants.gov

Research.gov

NSPIRES

Fastlane

Job description

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville seeks a Director of Grants and Contracts to lead the Division of Research Administration’s Award group, directing staff and processes to support faculty and researchers in securing and administering sponsored projects.

Reporting to the SAVCRA, the role involves collaboration with senior leadership, policy development, and national association engagement to advance UT’s research portfolio and external partnerships.