Senior Research Administrator - Grants & Portfolio Lead

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Somerville (MA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute in Boston is seeking a Lead Research Administrator to oversee multiple laboratories’ research portfolios, collaborate with the Department Administrator, and provide subject‑matter leadership in research administration. The role spans pre‑award grant activities, post‑award financial management, procurement, HR processes, compliance, and coordinating with central offices.

The position partners with department leadership to shape strategy and ensure compliance with NIH

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred with 6+ years in research administration.
• Experience managing complex research portfolios and budgets.
• Ability to collaborate with multiple departments and external sponsors.

Responsibilities

• Grant preparation (pre-award) for sponsored research applications and ensuring deadlines.
• Portfolio management (post-award): financial and narrative reporting, budgeting adherence.
• Procurement: approve/review purchase requests and verify funds.
• Human Resources: onboarding, salary offers, visa processing, and ongoing funding management.
• Compliance: advise on policies, NIH grants, and time/effort considerations.
• Cores, centers, and chargebacks: pricing, monthly billing, and revenue management.

Skills

Excel

Google Sheets

Project management

Written and verbal communication

Budgeting

Regulations and policies

Grant data analysis

Stakeholder relations

Problem solving

Leadership

Client-service

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute in Boston is seeking a Lead Research Administrator to oversee multiple laboratories’ research portfolios, collaborate with the Department Administrator, and provide subject‑matter leadership in research administration. The role spans pre‑award grant activities, post‑award financial management, procurement, HR processes, compliance, and coordinating with central offices.

The position partners with department leadership to shape strategy and ensure compliance with NIH