Senior Research Grants Administrator

UC San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego is seeking a professional Research Administrator at the experienced level to independently manage complex proposals, awards, and post‑award transactions in a university environment. The role requires deep knowledge of federal and non‑federal sponsor policies, strong analytical and budgeting capabilities, and the ability to guide staff in policy development and compliance.

The incumbent oversees pre‑award initiatives, post‑award management, and closeout activities for diverse

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in related area or equivalent experience.
• Experienced with all types of award mechanisms (grants, contracts, subcontracts, cooperative agreements).
• Strong understanding of research administration guidelines of federal and non-federal sponsors, preferably in a university environment.
• Knowledge of compliance requirements related to human/animal subjects, conflicts of interest, biosafety, etc.
• Proficient with spreadsheet and database software for financial analysis and reporting.
• Ability to manage high volume of transactions and complex financial data.

Responsibilities

• Develops and oversees proposals, awards, and post‑award transactions.
• Ensures compliance with sponsor policies and regulations across complex portfolios.
• Provides team leadership and policy guidance for processes and procedures.
• Manages pre‑award initiatives, post‑award management, and closeout activities.
• Coordinates with campus departments (OCGA, OPAFs, General Accounting) on financial reporting and compliance.

Skills

Grant management

Contract management

Budget analysis

Regulatory compliance

OMB guidance

Team leadership

Communication skills

University accounting policies

Education

Bachelor's degree in related area

Tools

IFIS

PPS

FinancialLink

Pivot tables

Job description

UC San Diego is seeking a professional Research Administrator at the experienced level to independently manage complex proposals, awards, and post‑award transactions in a university environment. The role requires deep knowledge of federal and non‑federal sponsor policies, strong analytical and budgeting capabilities, and the ability to guide staff in policy development and compliance.

The incumbent oversees pre‑award initiatives, post‑award management, and closeout activities for diverse