Senior Research Administration Specialist

Purdue University; West Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Purdue University is seeking a Senior Research Administration Specialist in West Lafayette to coordinate sponsored research activities, manage project timelines, and support programming and events. The role also involves supervising research assistants and preparing technical writing for proposals and reports.

Ideal candidates will bring strong project management, account management, and grant/technical writing skills, with a Bachelor’s degree and several years of experience in related

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Four years of experience in program administration, higher education, project management, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and support sponsored research activities with PIs and teams.
• Plan and manage project timelines, deliverables, and research-related activities.
• Coordinate sponsored programming, conferences, meetings, and events.
• Supervise and mentor research assistants to ensure quality and accountability.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and external partners to advance project goals.
• Prepare grant proposals, sponsor reports, updates, and supporting documentation.

Skills

Project management

Account management

Grant writing

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Job description

Senior Research Administration Specialist

Job Title: Senior Research Administration Specialist City: West Lafayette

Job Summary

At Purdue University, your work can help advance research, scholarship, and engagement that create meaningful impact. As a Senior Research Administration Specialist, you will play a key role in supporting sponsored research initiatives and programs by coordinating projects, managing operations, and fostering collaboration among researchers, staff, students, and external partners.

In this role, you'll help turn ideas into action by supporting research activities, sponsored programming, and strategic projects while ensuring initiatives are delivered effectively and efficiently. This position is ideal for a collaborative professional who enjoys balancing project management, research coordination, communication, and operational leadership.

Responsibilities Include:

• Coordinate and support sponsored research activities in partnership with principal investigators (PIs) and project teams.
• Plan and manage project timelines, deliverables, and research-related activities, including work associated with textbook development and publication.
• Coordinate sponsored programming, conferences, workshops, meetings, and special events.
• Supervise and mentor research assistants, ensuring quality, accountability, and successful project execution.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and external partners to advance project goals and sponsored initiatives.
• Prepare technical and professional writing, including grant proposals, sponsor reports, project updates, and supporting documentation.
• Assist with proposal development and sponsor communications throughout the project lifecycle.
• Manage project budgets in collaboration with PIs and staff, including monitoring expenditures and supporting financial reporting.
• Track project progress, identify challenges, and help implement solutions to meet project objectives.
• Support process improvement efforts and contribute to the successful delivery of research and sponsored programming.

This is a limited-term duration position, with an estimated 3 year appointment. Continuation of employment will be dependent upon funding.

What We're Looking For:

Required:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Four years of experience in program administration, higher education, project management, or related experience.

Skills Needed:

• Project management with ability to multi-task.
• Account management with strong attention to detail.
• Knowledge and understanding of grant writing and technical writing.

What is Helpful:

• An advanced degree IE: Master’s or Ph.D.

Additional Information:

• To learn more about Purdue’s benefits summaryCLICK HERE
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period

Career Stream

Professional 3

Pay Band S075
Job Code #20002105

Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university.