Research Contracts Officer — Negotiation & Compliance

Stanford University; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 98,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Stanford University is seeking a Contract Officer to review, negotiate, and oversee non-standard research-related contracts within the Office of Research Administration. The role supports Stanford's mission by enabling collaborative research while protecting academic freedom and scientific integrity.

The position emphasizes formal solicitation and negotiation with sponsors, risk assessment, and advising stakeholders across departments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with five years of relevant experience or equivalent combination.
• Demonstrated ability to draft, negotiate and finalize sponsored projects agreements.
• Advanced knowledge of grant and contract programs and processes across sponsor types (industry, non-profit, government, higher education).
• Understanding of contractual terms: publication/data rights, IP, confidentiality.
• Ability to work with university policies and research environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct solicitation, negotiation, and administration of grants and non-routine contracts with sponsors.
• Identify and negotiate special conditions (publication/data rights, IP, confidentiality).
• Negotiate non-sponsored research-related agreements with special conditions.
• Draft, negotiate and execute sub-awards under sponsored projects.
• Identify and resolve contractual and policy issues arising during review.
• Advise department administrators, PIs, and staff; interpret agreement provisions.
• Educate units regarding institutional processes.

Skills

Draft and negotiate contracts

Grant and contract negotiations

Knowledge of IP and publication rights

Communication skills

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Grant management systems

Job description

Stanford University is seeking a Contract Officer to review, negotiate, and oversee non-standard research-related contracts within the Office of Research Administration. The role supports Stanford's mission by enabling collaborative research while protecting academic freedom and scientific integrity.

The position emphasizes formal solicitation and negotiation with sponsors, risk assessment, and advising stakeholders across departments.