| Minimum Qualifications |
- Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Research Administration, Business Administration, Public Administration, or related discipline)
- Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in research administration, preferably in a higher education setting
- Comprehensive knowledge of federal and state regulations governing sponsored research
- Demonstrated experience in proposal development, contract negotiation, and post-award management
- Strong leadership and mentoring skills with the ability to manage and motivate a team
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders
- Proficiency in research administration software systems and data analysis tools
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| Essential Duties and Responsibilities |
Sponsored Programs (SP) at Appalachian State University, is a unit within the
Office of Research and Innovation, which facilitates and supports the university's research, scholarship, and creative activities by providing comprehensive sponsored programs administration services. SP's mission includes assisting faculty and staff in identifying funding opportunities, preparing and submitting competitive grant and contract proposals, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations, and overseeing post-award administration.
The Senior Associate Director of Research Administration is a critical leadership role within SP, reporting directly to the Director of Sponsored Programs. The primary purpose of this position is to provide expert guidance, strategic planning, and operational leadership to enhance the university's sponsored research enterprise. This position supports the Director in managing daily operations, supervising staff, ensuring compliance, and facilitating efficient proposal development and award management processes. By fostering collaboration across academic units and external funding agencies, the Senior Associate Director helps advance Appalachian State University's mission to create knowledge, serve communities, and address global challenges through research and innovation.
Duties & Responsibilities include:
1. Leadership and Management:
- Assist the Director of Sponsored Programs in daily staff management, including supervising and mentoring research administration personnel
- Lead and participate in staff meetings, in-service activities, and retreats
- Support the DSP in conducting performance evaluations, resolving conflicts, and managing professional development for the team
- Assist in the recruitment and onboarding of new staff members
2. Sponsored Programs Administration:
- Oversee proposal development, submission, and some post-award activities for a diverse portfolio of sponsored research projects
- Provide expert guidance on complex proposals, including budget development, cost-sharing, and compliance with sponsor guidelines
- Review and approve proposals and contracts as an authorized organizational representative (AOR)
- Assist in developing and implementing policies and procedures for sponsored programs administration
- Serve as a liaison between principal investigators, university administration, and funding agencies
4. Compliance and Risk Management:
- Stay informed about changes in federal and state regulations affecting sponsored research and ensure university policies remain compliant with sufficient expertise to guide and train SP staff and to provide authoritative advice
- Review proposal compliance data for completion and potential need for further review.
- Ensure compliance protocols and required reports remain current throughout project life cycles.
5. Strategic Planning and Process Improvement:
- Collaborate with the DSP on strategic initiatives to enhance the university's research administration capabilities
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement changes to increase efficiency and effectiveness
- Assist in the selection, implementation, and management of research administration software systems
6. Training and Outreach:
- Develop and deliver training programs for faculty, staff, and administrators on sponsored research policies and procedures
- Represent the Office of Research at university events and meetings with academic units
- Participate in professional development activities and maintain active involvement in relevant professional organizations
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Appalachian State University
Jan 15, 2025