Job Details

The Opportunity

Through its research-focused 10 Centers and Institutes, the Heller School performs a growing and diverse array of federally and privately sponsored research activities, exceeding $15 million annually, that fulfills its mission of "Knowledge Advancing Social Justice". Heller's researchers address a spectrum of contemporary social policies, challenges and issues, domestically and internationally. We are seeking a hands-on Director of Sponsored Research Administration, reporting to the Heller Chief Administrative Officer, who will direct a team that fully supports sponsored research at Heller, from pre-award to post-award activities. The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of the concepts, requirements, regulations, and financial accounting aspects governing sponsored research for both federal and non-federal grants and contracts. They will have a financial background and at least 8 years' experience in sponsored research activities, 5 years of which should include supervising a team responsible for assisting researchers in the preparation of grant submissions and subsequent post award and reporting functions, in collaboration with Heller center/institute staff; Brandeis' Office of Research Administration (ORA); and the Brandeis Sponsored Programs Accounting department (SPA).

Position Summary

In collaboration with Heller Centers' and Institutes' staff, manages a complex portfolio of grants and contracts to ensure compliance with University and sponsor requirements. Continuously seeks to improve processes and methods to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Directs and assists a team of Senior Grant Administrators in the preparation of pre-award budgets, documents and other aspects of grant and contract submission requirements; and coordinates final submission with the Brandeis Office of Research Administration. Additionally, directs performance of required post-award activities, in coordination with the Brandeis Sponsored Programs Accounting department.

• Ensures compliance with University and sponsor rules, policies and procedures.


• Ensures research staff receive accurate and timely reporting of grant finances.


• Manages researcher payroll, coverage and effort reporting.


• Meets regularly with Center and Institute Directors, staff, ORA, SPA to coordinate activities, seek improvements and ensure awareness of and compliance with policies and procedures.


• Represents to the Heller School on Brandeis Committees and university-wide, research-related initiatives.

Position Requirements:

Required Education and Experience- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business or related field plus 8 or more years in sponsored research administration, including experience with Uniform Guidance regulations. CPA, MBA, CRA preferred qualifications.

Supervisory Experience- 5 or more years supervising a professional staff with responsibility for hiring, reviewing, and developing the staff. Demonstrated ability to effectively manage, motivate and coach a team under tight deadlines. Ability to take initiative, prioritize workload, and work independently. Ability to train and develop the staff and foster a team environment.

Knowledge-Broad and comprehensive knowledge of theories, concepts and best practices regarding both federal and non-federal sponsored research requirements, regulations and accounting. Strong excel skills essential with knowledge of Workday a significant plus.

Collaboration-Strong ability to effectively collaborate and partner with researchers, staff and faculty within the Heller school and Brandeis.

Communication- Excellent verbal and written skills are essential in this position, given the complexity of the work and the range of interaction within Heller and Brandeis.

To apply: Please apply directly on our careers page at https://brandeis.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Jobs/job/Brandeis---Waltham-Campus/Associate-Director--Research-Administration_R0003801