Research Specialist

UM01 University of Maryland College Park (UMCP); United States; On-site; USD 83,271 - 99,925; Full time

Job summary

The University of Maryland, College Park is looking for an individual to manage federal research grants for its Maryland Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES) within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR). The role entails comprehensive administration, serving as a primary liaison with various stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with federal requirements.

Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree and have three years of relevant experience. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential. A competitive salary range of $83,271 - $99,925 is offered along with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Three (3) years of experience in a related field.
• Prior experience working with USDA and in research administration.
• Proven organizational and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Administer and coordinate federal research grants for MAES.
• Serve as liaison between MAES and other stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with federal requirements.

Skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university

M.S. from an accredited college or university

Job description

Job Description Summary

The Maryland Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES) in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) at the University of Maryland, College Park, conducts research at all levels related to sustainable food and fiber production.

Responsibilities

• Comprehensive administration, reporting, and coordination of federal capacity and competitive research grants for MAES within AGNR.
• Serve as the primary liaison between MAES, faculty, USDA–NIFA, and campus administrative units.
• Ensure compliance with federal requirements while supporting faculty throughout the full grant lifecycle.
• Capacity grant management, NIFA reporting, intramural grant administration, multistate research coordination.
• Faculty support, and organization of research‑related meetings, workshops, and reporting activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. from an accredited college or university.
• Prior experience working with USDA and in research administration in higher education.
• Prior experience planning and managing meetings and events.
• Ability to engage with internal and external stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Experience: Three (3) years of experience in a related field.
• Additional work experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for up to four (4) years of the required education.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Proven organizational skills, including time management and project management experience.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Self‑sufficiency and the ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.Attention to detail.

Physical Demands

Work is performed in a normal office environment. The position requires operating standard office equipment for extensive periods and may require minimal travel to assist with, attend, or manage meetings off‑campus.

Benefits Summary

Regular salary range: $83,271 - $99,925. Benefits information is available through the Regular Exempt benefits program.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.