Pre-Award Research Administrator

Overview

The George Mason University, College of Science, invites applications for a Pre-Award Research Administrator position. George Mason University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who will enrich Mason’s academic and culturally inclusive environment.

About the Position:

This position is responsible for managing pre-award activities for an assigned portfolio of grants and contracts within the College of Science (COS), using knowledge of grant and contract management rules and regulations, technical expertise, and analytical skills. This person will manage the day-to-day operations and objectives in support of the assigned portfolio. Contributes information and ideas related to areas of responsibility as part of a cross-functional team. Ensures effective and efficient workflow and adherence to quality standards for staff/program and self.

About the College:

The College of Science is committed to providing scientific insight into the challenges of a rapidly evolving world by fostering cutting-edge research and delivering a world-class education. The College blends excellence in science education and cutting-edge research in diverse programs such as molecular medicine, climate dynamics, planetary science, forensic science, environmental studies, and geoinformation science.

Mason Science is committed to advancing access, justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (A-JEDI) throughout our STEM community, including within our hiring and retention practices. At Mason Science, our values include fostering an organizational culture that promotes anti-racism, belonging, respect, and civility. We believe that a diversity of opinions, cultures, and perspectives is what provides vibrancy, innovation, and growth to an academic community. By prioritizing inclusive excellence in academics, teaching, research, and global engagement, we strive to attract a diverse pool of faculty and staff who exemplify the Mason Science mission and vision.

Responsibilities:

Working with COS Senior Research Administrators, understand and develop skills related to the following tasks:

• Follow and adhere to processes and activities related to pre-award functions;
• Perform pre-award activities for COS to include, but not limited to, assisting faculty/PI in the development, preparation, and submission of grant and contract proposals. Ensure all applications meet agency and University guidelines and published timetables and deadlines, including management of the Just-In-Time process. Ensure proposals are entered and routed in a timely manner for further review;
• Confer with PI and pre-award support staff at collaborating institutions to secure necessary sub-award documents for proposals;
• Assist PI in the development of budgets and budget justification which includes proofing the budget for inconsistencies and ensuring accuracy;
• Review budgets for consistency with a sponsor, monitor compliance with agency and University regulations regarding submission; verify all financial information to include the application of the appropriate overhead rate for the project;
• Advise PI on administrative requirements in preparing proposal submissions;
• Advise PI on budget adjustments and revisions necessary to meet the sponsor requirements;
• Coordinate and review certain proposal elements (bio-sketches and facilities and resources) for consistency, accuracy, and completeness;
• Review proposals for consistency with sponsor guidelines on budget, format, font size, and page limits excluding narrative content (obtain and review sponsor guidelines);
• Monitor and facilitate the proposal process through the routing process in compliance with University procedures and institutional signatures, and obtain signatures as needed;
• Monitor proposal status and advise PI on requirements and deadlines associated with research protection protocols;
• Work effectively with other offices (OSP, Fiscal Services, ORIA, school, departments, divisions) on research proposals;
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Fundamental interpersonal skills in a professional environment;
• Demonstrated advanced oral and written communication skills;
• Ability to analyze data and formulate conclusions;
• Ability to learn changing technologies related to grants and contracts management;
• Proficient use of computers; requires a solid working knowledge of MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint);
• Ability to create high-quality written documents;
• Proactively resolve issues in a timely manner;
• Excellent customer service orientation; and
• Deadline-oriented; work well under pressure.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; and
• Any appropriate combination of relevant education and/or work experience may be considered.

Candidates must be:

• A citizen of the United States;
• A person who is a lawful permanent resident of the United States (a “Green Card” holder);
• A person who is a “protected individual” as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a) (3); or
• A person who is otherwise able to become generally eligible to receive unclassified technical data pursuant to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

For full consideration, applicants must apply at https://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references with contact information.