Careers in Research Administration

10 Things Research Administrators Do

1. Ensure compliance with federal, state, local and institutional regulations/policies.
2. Provide services to investigators in support of their research goals.
3. Stay current with federal and state regulations.
4. Represent the institution with funding agencies.
5. Communication with international collaborators and consultants.
6. Manage research portfolios and advise investigators, as needed.
7. Coordinate among research departments and services.
8. Assist investigators with proposal development, progress reports, closeouts, extensions, and forecasting.
9. Conduct the final review and approval of proposals and budgets. Act as authorized signatory.
10. Negotiate awards and contracts; conduct audits.  

What Skills Should I Have for Research Administration?

• Excellent time-management skills, deadline-driven mindset
• Project management experience, good listening skills
• Comfort working with varied deadlines and a complex workload
• Experience or coursework in accounting, budgeting or finance
• Ability to work with complex teams and across all levels of an organization
• Multitasking and organization skills, attention to detail
• Patience with bureaucratic procedures
• Curiosity and problem-solving skills, ability to learn quickly
• Willingness to learn research regulations and regulatory agencies
• Awareness of current events and policy developments that affect science
• Ability to represent and advocate for the value of research

Entry-Level Positions in Research Administration at Ohio State

• Grants and Contracts Management Analyst 1
• Sponsored Programs Coordinator 2