Job Description

Research Administrator I

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rice University is seeking a Research Administrator I. This role provides comprehensive analytical, administrative, and financial post-award research support across the department. Serving as a vital liaison, the Research Administrator I connects Principal Investigators (PIs), central university administration, and external funding agencies to ensure seamless research operations.

Ideal Candidate Statement:

The ideal candidate is an analytical, detail-oriented research administration professional with a proven track record in post-award management, particularly for complex, multi-investigator, and center-level grants. The candidate must function well in a high-workload environment requiring prioritization and meeting deadlines, while taking initiative and exercising independent judgment and discretion. They possess advanced financial and compliance expertise, excel in budgeting, reconciliation, projections, and reporting, and demonstrate sound judgment in stewarding research funds. The candidate collaborates effectively with faculty, central offices, and sponsors, serving as a trusted advisor and key liaison. Ultimately, they are a proactive, meticulous partner committed to strengthening the research infrastructure in the Physics and Astronomy department while supporting the department's strategic and operational goals.

Workplace Requirements:

This position is offered as a hybrid role after the probationary period, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range: Hiring salary range is $56,560$62,000, commensurate with education and experience.

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree
• In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted
• One or more (1+) year of related administrative experience
• In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted
• Skills
• Working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets (Excel), email, and database software.
• Solid working knowledge of research administration guidelines, compliance regulations, and institutional policies.
• Exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and the capacity to prioritize strict deadlines.

Essential Functions:

• Manages comprehensive post-award administration for an assigned portfolio of grants and contracts.
• Utilizes financial forecasting tools to monitor PI solvency, identify budget surpluses or deficits, calculate burn rates, and assist faculty with budget planning.
• Gathers data and analyzes information to assist in recommendations and optimization of appropriate use of funding sources.
• Reviews, tracks, and approves expenditures, including high-value/high-risk costs and cost-sharing commitments, to ensure compliance with university policies, federal regulations, and sponsor guidelines.
• Coordinates subcontract setups; ensures statements of work, budgets, and justifications are reviewed and approved by the PI.
• Coordinates account setup, monitors active budgets, provides data for progress reports, and manages full account close-out activities.
• Manages and tracks the effort commitments of key project personnel.
• Serves as the primary department liaison with the Office of Sponsored Research (OSR), Research Cost Accounting (RCA), internal audit, subcontractors, and funding agencies; responds directly to accounting audit inquiries.
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Rice University HR | Benefits: Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please get in touch with Rice University's Human Resources Office via email at facstaffada@rice.edu for support.

If you have any additional questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu. Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.

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