Senior Research Grants Administrator

UC San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego is seeking an experienced Research Administrator in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics. The role involves independently managing proposals, awards, and transactions, ensuring compliance with sponsor policies, and overseeing complex multi-investigator projects.

The incumbent will forecast budgets, coordinate pre- and post-award activities, and guide junior staff. The position requires deep knowledge of federal/state regulations, financial analysis, and strong communication.

Qualifications

• Thorough understanding of research administration guidelines of Federal and non-Federal sponsors.
• Knowledgeable about Federal Acquisition Regulation, Code of Federal Regulations, sponsor policies, intellectual property policy, conflict of interest requirements, publication rights, and indirect cost rates.
• Ability to manage a high volume of transactions with precision in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to perform complex financial analysis and customized reporting.
• Demonstrated competence in using spreadsheet and database software for financial analysis and reporting.
• Experience interpreting University and sponsor policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Experience working independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to handle confidential matters with discretion.
• Strong organizational and communication skills with collaborative mindset.
• Experience with cost accounting standards and compliance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Independently develop and oversee research proposals, awards, and contract records.
• Ensure compliance with sponsor policies and institutional regulations.
• Forecast, plan, and manage research portfolios including pre-award and post-award activities.
• Coordinate, negotiate, and administer complex multi-investigator and multi-subaward proposals.
• Provide leadership and guidance to less experienced staff.
• Support budgeting, reporting, and financial closeout for federal, state, local, and private sponsors.

Skills

FAR knowledge

OMB circulars

Budgeting

Contracts & Grants

Compliance

Financial analysis

Communication

Data management

Policy interpretation

Team leadership

Tools

FinancialLink

Job description

UC San Diego is seeking an experienced Research Administrator in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics. The role involves independently managing proposals, awards, and transactions, ensuring compliance with sponsor policies, and overseeing complex multi-investigator projects.

The incumbent will forecast budgets, coordinate pre- and post-award activities, and guide junior staff. The position requires deep knowledge of federal/state regulations, financial analysis, and strong communication.