Strategic Lead, Complex Sponsored Research Programs

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kentucky is seeking a Complex Award Program Manager to join the Fiscal Affairs department in Lexington. This role provides leadership and coordination for large, complex sponsored research programs across multiple investigators and departments.

You will drive communication among principal investigators, CGS, OSPA, and RFS, oversee budgets, projections, and compliance, and ensure financial stewardship throughout the award lifecycle at the program level.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of sponsored research administration, award management, and compliance requirements.
• Experience with budget development, financial planning, forecasting, and project-level analysis.
• Excellent project management, organizational, and coordination skills.
• Ability to balance multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail and stewardship of funds.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate project-level administration for large, multi-investigator programs.
• Facilitate communication among investigators, CGS, OSPA, RFS, and admins.
• Monitor timelines, requirements, governance activities, and issues.
• Assist leadership with interpreting award terms and sponsor expectations.
• Develop consolidated budgets and financial projections across awards.
• Support payroll allocation reviews and financial oversight.

Skills

Sponsored research administration

Budget development

Project management

Communication and relationship‑builder

Job description

The University of Kentucky is seeking a Complex Award Program Manager to join the Fiscal Affairs department in Lexington. This role provides leadership and coordination for large, complex sponsored research programs across multiple investigators and departments.

You will drive communication among principal investigators, CGS, OSPA, and RFS, oversee budgets, projections, and compliance, and ensure financial stewardship throughout the award lifecycle at the program level.