Sponsored Programs & Research Compliance Lead

Harvard University FAS Human Resources; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Parental leave

Medical insurance

Retirement plans

Wellbeing resources

Professional development

Job summary

Harvard Kennedy School is seeking a Sponsored Programs Manager to lead the review and approval of externally funded proposals and manage post‑award monitoring and reporting. You will liaison between HKS faculty and Harvard’s central offices, ensuring compliance with sponsor requirements and university policies.

The role reports to an Associate Director and supports researchers across multiple centers, coordinating with OSP, GSS, OVPR, OGC, and RMAS while improving processes and training staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required.
• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant work experience with broad-based research administration.
• Advanced knowledge of sponsored research regulations.
• Cover letter and writing sample required.

Responsibilities

• Manage the HKS review and approval process for sponsored grant/contract proposals.
• Oversee post‑award monitoring and reporting activities.
• Coordinate with central offices (OSP, GSS, OVPR, OGC, RMAS) and leadership.
• Lead or participate in training for staff and stakeholders.
• Represent HKS on committees and at school-level meetings.

Skills

Proposal review

Compliance monitoring

Communication

Risk management

Audit coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

GMAS system

Job description

Harvard Kennedy School is seeking a Sponsored Programs Manager to lead the review and approval of externally funded proposals and manage post‑award monitoring and reporting. You will liaison between HKS faculty and Harvard’s central offices, ensuring compliance with sponsor requirements and university policies.

The role reports to an Associate Director and supports researchers across multiple centers, coordinating with OSP, GSS, OVPR, OGC, and RMAS while improving processes and training staff.