Junior Research Administrator; R26-40 *Hybrid

Location: Albany, NY

Category: Research Foundation Careers

Job Type: Full-time

Posted On: Thu Jul 2 2026

The Junior Research Administrator (JRA) provides comprehensive support across the lifecycle of sponsored awards, partnering with faculty and campus stakeholders to manage award acceptance, setup, and modifications. The JRA ensures compliance with University, Research Foundation, and sponsor requirements while supporting efficient pre‑award administration in alignment with federal and state regulations. The JRA also prepares documentation for review, signature, and submission by Authorized Organizational Representatives.

• Review, prepare, and initiate proposals and award documents to be submitted on behalf of the University. Ensure compliance with sponsor and institutional requirements by interpreting guidelines, preparing award setups and modifications, and coordinating submissions through internal systems and sponsor portals.
• Support pre‑award activities including budget revisions, scope changes, no‑cost extensions, and subaward initiation. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure efficient administration across the award lifecycle.
• Provide guidance to faculty and departmental staff to ensure effective stewardship of sponsored funding. Deliver responsive support on pre‑award and non‑financial post‑award inquiries while applying University, RF, and sponsor policies to award setup and management. Collaborate with post‑award teams, assist with timely technical reporting, and support award closeout activities.
• Participate in team meetings, contribute to process improvements and SOP development, and collaborate with internal partners to deliver high‑quality service across the award lifecycle. Maintain tracking of assigned work and perform additional duties as needed.
• Provide assistance to the Associate Director for Account Establishment and Management, the Assistant Director for Proposals Management, and the Director of Pre‑Award Services as required.
• Participate in the University's Division for Research & Economic Development programs and events.

• Bachelor's degree from a college or university accredited by the US Department of Education or an internationally recognized accrediting organization and 2 years of professional experience in an administrative position; OR Associate's degree plus 4 years of professional experience in an administrative position; OR High School diploma and 6 years of professional experience in an administrative position.
• Experience using Microsoft Office products.
• Experience using online business systems, such as Oracle.
• Must be self‑directed, possess good judgment and problem‑solving skills and be comfortable in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.
• Ability to interact effectively with a diverse constituency and be customer service oriented.
• Demonstrated customer service and continuous improvement experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Professional experience in higher education, research, contract administration or a related field.
  • Knowledge of federal regulations governing sponsored research.
  • Designation of Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or Certified Pre‑Award Administrator (CPRA).

Salary Range: $55,000 - $60,000 (DOE)

Subject to change: This position may be eligible for up to 50% alternative workplace arrangement (Hybrid) with supervisor approval with in‑person requirement located in Albany, New York.

Federal law and regulations require notice to all prospective employees regarding crimes that have occurred on campus in the current three‑year period. Please refer to the following website for the complete Annual Security Report ("Clery Report"): (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..shtml

As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, The Research Foundation for SUNY will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, physical and mental disability, criminal record, genetic information, predisposition or carrier status, status with respect to receiving public assistance, domestic violence victim status, a disabled, special, recently separated, active duty wartime, campaign badge, Armed Forces service medal veteran, or any other characteristics protected under applicable law.

The Research Foundation for The State University of New York offers exceptional benefits such as healthcare, dental, vision, pension plans, competitive pay, generous paid time off, tuition assistance, life insurance and long‑term disability insurance. The University at Albany offers a variety of performing arts, world class libraries, and competitive sporting events.