Sponsored Research Coordinator

Department: Office Sponsored Research
Salary/Grade: EXS/6

Job Summary:

The Sponsored Research Coordinator manages seamless workflow for sponsored research activity to ensure timely and efficient business processes across the Sponsored Research (SR) office and to comply with auditing requirements for sponsored projects. Under the leadership of the Manager, SR Coordination, the Sponsored Research Coordinator is responsible for: (1) intake and assessment of proposals, awards, award modifications, contracts and subcontracts; (2) review and routing of sponsored research activities and transactions to SR staff, school, departmental and other university staff and external stakeholders or collaborators for appropriate action; (3) communication with internal and external parties in support of managing timely submissions and negotiations; and (4) closing out sponsored research transactions following submission, negotiation, execution and/or other required disposition.

Northwestern Sponsored Research is committed to being BRAVE (Battling Racism And Valuing Equity). Through deliberate words and actions, we endeavor to confirm to our colleagues that we see them and acknowledge their humanity and value.

The Sponsored Research Coordinator will support the OR mission and values of understanding empathy, modeling accountability, ensuring fairness, embracing community, and valuing creativity.

Specific Responsibilities:

Intake

• Monitor the research administration system and email accounts for incoming activity for the primary business process supported (such as proposals, awards, or agreements).
• Review and assess incoming requests for completeness and validate compliance requirements are present, interacting with initiators and other stakeholders as needed, within target timeframe.
• Review, route, and/or assign actions to the appropriate sponsored research unit/staff member or university school, unit or department based on established office protocols.

Closeout and reporting

• Execute closeout requirements based on the activity, including ensuring accurate transaction statuses are reflected in the research administration system and archiving relevant documentation to the appropriate repository following standard operating procedures and in compliance with audit requirements.
• Run, create, and submit reports such as Federal Financial Accountability & Transparency Act (FFATA), final invention/patent reports and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests in compliance with sponsor requirements and deadlines as applicable.

Performance metrics monitoring

• Routinely review activity queues to identify and prevent inefficiencies in transaction processing and assist Sponsored Research in meeting target performance metrics.
• Conduct follow-up as needed with relevant parties (e.g., department research administrators, external sponsor/subcontractor contacts, other Northwestern office contacts) to ensure timely processing and/or execution of proposals, agreements, and awards.

Other

• Identify and recommend process improvements and suggest or implement updates to standard operating procedures.
• Provide backup as needed for other coordinators during seasonal cycles and for out-of-office coverage, ensuring continuously smooth operations across Sponsored Research.
• Research and resolve issues as needed and/or assigned.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Previous work experience in the administration of sponsored research at an educational institution, in the federal government, or at some other entity engaged in sponsored research.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Knowledge of university principles, policies, and procedures related to the conduct of research.
• Computer proficiency - software use may include Microsoft Office suite, web browsers, email, as well as enterprise systems such as Huron Grants and Agreements, MyHR, and PeopleSoft, and related sponsor systems such as eRA Commons, PAMS, Research.gov, and grants.gov.
• Communication (oral and written) proficiency - ability to communicate effectively one-to-one, in small groups, and in public speaking contexts; ability to compose concise emails and other written communications while using appropriate vocabulary and grammar.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• Meets deadlines - displays consistency and success in adhering to deadlines.

Target hiring range for this position will be between $57,000-$62,000 per year. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern strongly recommends COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters for people who can obtain them as a critical tool for minimizing severe illness. More information can be found on the COVID-19 and Campus Updates webpage.

The Northwestern campus sits on the traditional homelands of the people of the Council of Three Fires, the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa as well as the Menominee, Miami and Ho-Chunk nations. We acknowledge and honor the original people of the land upon which Northwestern University stands, and the Native people who remain on this land today.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Click for information on EEO is the Law.

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