Classification Title:
Assistant / Associate Director, Research Administration
Classification Minimum Requirements:
The Assistant Director position requires a master’s degree in a related field and two years of relevant experience, or a bachelor’s degree and four years of relevant experience.
The Associate Director position requires a master’s degree and four years of relevant experience, or a bachelor’s degree and six years of relevant experience.
Job Description:
This position provides leadership and oversight for all aspects of research administration and compliance, including pre-award and post-award management of sponsored research projects funded by federal, state, and private sponsors. Responsibilities include coordinating proposal submissions and award administration, ensuring compliance with sponsor regulations, university policies, and federal requirements, monitoring effort reporting and financial obligations, and advising faculty and staff on complex research administration matters. The role also supports risk management by identifying compliance concerns, maintaining internal controls, and promoting continuous improvement in research administration practices.
In addition, the position supervises and develops a team of research administration professionals through recruitment, training, mentoring, and performance management. The role supports strategic and operational planning, drives process improvements to enhance efficiency and service excellence, serves as a liaison between academic departments and central administrative offices, and promotes consistent implementation of research administration best practices across the organization.
This position is based in Gainesville, Florida, and is primarily an on-campus role. The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, generally from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility available within normal business hours. May require additional hours during peak times to meet operational needs
As a member of one of the nation’s leading public research universities, you’ll contribute to groundbreaking research initiatives while working alongside world-class faculty and administrative professionals. The University of Florida offers a collaborative culture, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to advancing research that improves lives and communities around the world.
Join us and help support the research enterprise that drives innovation and discovery at the University of Florida.
Expected Salary:
Commensurate with education and experience.
Ast Dir: $95,000-$110,000
Aso Dir: $110,000-$120,000
Required Qualifications:
The Assistant Director position requires a master’s degree in a related field and two years of relevant experience, or a bachelor’s degree and four years of relevant experience.
The Associate Director position requires a master’s degree and four years of relevant experience, or a bachelor’s degree and six years of relevant experience.
Preferred:
Preferred qualifications include experience in research administration, contracts and grants management, or higher education finance, along with knowledge of sponsored programs regulations and compliance requirements. Candidates should have experience supervising staff and managing administrative operations, strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, excellent organizational skills, and a demonstrated capacity to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders effectively. Strong communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills are also essential.
The ideal candidate will be a proactive leader who combines technical expertise in research administration with a commitment to exceptional customer service. They will thrive in a collaborative academic environment, demonstrate sound judgment, and possess the ability to balance compliance requirements with operational effectiveness.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
In order to be considered for this position, you must upload your cover letter and resume with application.
This is a time-limited position.
Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.
Health Assessment Required:
No
