Robotics Research Administrator Ld​/Senior

Job Summary

Lead Research Administrator responsible for overseeing pre‑ and post‑award activities for assigned Robotics faculty, providing technical leadership to the research administration team, and ensuring compliance with sponsor and university policies.

• Mentor and guide research administrators, triage daily inquiries, and manage escalation of complex issues.
• Lead operational support: data analysis, reporting, and process improvement for departmental operations.
• Partner with faculty to prepare and submit complex sponsored research proposals; develop budgets, ensure compliance, and manage approvals and agreements through institutional and sponsor systems.
• Provide comprehensive financial management for sponsored projects, gift funds, and startup accounts; monitor budgets, advise faculty on financial planning, coordinate grant‑funded personnel, manage award lifecycle activities, and ensure regulatory adherence.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Seven or more years of progressive grant, finance, and contract research administration experience in an academic setting.
• Proficiency with Excel/Google Sheets, financial management systems (M‑Reports, M‑Pathways, Business Objects), and eResearch Proposal Management.
• Experience managing complex portfolios involving major federal agencies (NSF, DoD, DoE) and foundation or industry contracts.
• Exceptional critical thinking, attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize competing deadlines under tight regulatory constraints.
• Outstanding interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills with a customer‑service orientation.

• 10+ years of comprehensive, progressive research administration experience.
• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) credential.
• Experience designing and delivering peer training or technical mentorship.
• Knowledge and application of project management best practices.

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.