Research Services Administrator

Dept Number/Name: 0-7903-000 / Sponsored Research

College Division: Research-Sponsored Research

Salary Plan: Administrative

Job Code/Title: 4400 / Research Svcs. Administrator

Hiring Salary/Salary Range: $50,000 - $55,000

Position Number: 00017710

Work Flexibility: Job is Fully Remote

ORGANIZATIONAL SUMMARY:
Sponsored Research (SR) is a component of USF Research and Innovation, a vice presidential area with a direct report to the University President. The mission of the unit is the efficient and effective administration of USF contracts and grants, including proposal services, information services, funding opportunities, specific post award functions, and a variety of compliance matters. The USF research enterprise is a more than $400 million per year operation. SR has an annual operating budget of $2.6 million and more than 20 specialized administrative and staff employees. Clients of SR include, but are not limited to, the following: faculty researchers, unit research administrators, agency/sponsor personnel, industry representatives and research administrators at other universities. SR also works closely with other units in USF Research & Innovation and with other divisions outside of the VP area, such as General Counsel, Academic Affairs, USF Health, Purchasing, Travel, Accounts Payable and other central academic and administrative units.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Research Services Administrator plays a pivotal role in supporting the research mission of the University of South Florida by providing comprehensive administrative support to the central research administration office. Reporting to a member of the senior leadership team, this position is responsible for a diverse range of administrative tasks aimed at facilitating the advancement of research programs and initiatives. The Research Services Administrator will be tasked with assisting with special projects and initiatives as assigned by the Director, which may involve research, analysis, and implementation of new procedures or systems to improve the effectiveness of the Sponsored Research office.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Administers special projects and initiatives in support of division objectives as assigned by the Director of Sponsored Research, such as conducting research on relevant policies and procedures, and assisting with process improvements, ensuring timely completion.
Plans and coordinates Sponsored Research workshops, seminars and events, to promote research initiatives and facilitate collaboration among stakeholders. Coordinates logistics for university-wide departmental "At Your Service" meetings and Central Unit Quarterly In-service meetings, Monthly dept. workshops and any other Research Enterprise related meetings as needed. Manages scheduling, prepares agendas, assembles pertinent materials, and records minutes as needed.
Facilitates communication between internal stakeholders and external partners to foster collaboration and resource-sharing. Acts as a liaison between the administrative office and the various academic departments or units, ensuring smooth coordination and alignment of objectives. Represents Sponsored Research on cross-functional teams, policy committees, and work groups at the request of the Director.
Establishes and maintains program standards and eligibility requirements in alignment with institutional policies and objectives. Responsible for maintaining organized and up-to-date electronic files derived from day to day operations used for audit defense and to maintain compliance.
Performs other duties as assigned.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:
MINIMUM:
This position requires a master's degree in an appropriate field of study, or a bachelor's degree in an appropriate field and two years of experience in administrative services. Four additional years of directly relevant and progressively responsible administrative experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree.
PREFERRED:
Previous experience in an administrative support role, preferably in a higher education or research administration environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and familiarity with research administration software and databases. Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage competing deadlines, and maintain attention to detail. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders. Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and always maintain a high level of professionalism. Commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment and supporting the university's mission and values.
SPECIAL SKILLS/TRAINING:
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and familiarity with research administration software and databases. Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage competing deadlines, and maintain attention to detail. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders. Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and always maintain a high level of professionalism. Commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment and supporting the university's mission and values.