Business Analyst

Pre‑Award Business Analyst

Responsible for supporting and leading OSP Pre‑Award initiatives, including proposal review and submission, award management, negotiation of terms, and account set up for a portfolio of over $350 million. Works closely with the Business Operations and Reporting Manager to strengthen process improvement across Pre‑Award services and to develop expertise in sponsored research administration.

• Collaborate with business partners to document current processes, map workflows, and recommend solutions.
• Direct strategic analyses that inform business decisions and oversee the assessment of new initiatives.
• Help identify change management requirements, create plans, support training materials, and conduct post‑implementation reviews.
• Provide support for and lead additional analytical projects as needed.

Project Management

• Create and update project plans that support staffing, tracking, and oversight of Pre‑Award and university‑wide initiatives.
• Compile and structure data and written materials into draft projects and proposals; prepare presentations and, when appropriate, present to management groups.
• Develop creative Pre‑Award initiatives, including new programs or revised versions of current programs, with an emphasis on quality and process improvement.
• Review and assess methods used to complete projects, applying lessons learned for future work.
• Meet with stakeholders, follow up on information shared, and confirm that projects and proposals are finished within required timelines.
• Lead small work groups to generate recommendations for senior leadership.
• Clearly communicate and present issues to both internal and external leaders.

Additional Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for committees, new initiatives, and projects related to Pre‑Award services or general research administration needs.
• Help determine and execute strategic goals for OSP and the broader Harvard research administration community.
• Develop and maintain relationships with Harvard University offices, including the Office of the Vice Provost for Research, Office of Technology Development, Harvard University IT, Alumni Affairs and Development, Risk Management and Audit Services, and all school‑level leadership and research administrators.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience (required).
• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience (required).
• Advanced knowledge of sponsored research regulations (required).

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Excellent computer skills, especially Microsoft Office (preferred).
• Excellent oral and written communication skills (preferred).
• Proficient in data analysis principles and practices, including preparing, interpreting, and analyzing data (preferred).
• Astute attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and integrity of all data, reports, and communications (preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects and re‑establish priorities as necessary (preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to be a self‑starter and excel in a fast‑paced, deadline‑oriented environment (preferred).
• Demonstrates flexibility and willingness to assume additional responsibilities (preferred).
• Exceptional judgment and discretion in interacting with constituencies on sensitive issues (preferred).
• Familiarity with Harvard‑affiliated institutions is a plus.
• Master’s degree or other terminal degree in a relevant field (preferred).

• Generous paid time off, including parental leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one.
• Retirement plans with university contributions.
• Wellbeing and mental health resources.
• Support for families and caregivers.
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement.
• Commuter benefits, discounts, and campus perks.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit Harvard’s Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

This position may include some duties performed at a non‑Harvard location. Work schedule and location will be set by the department based on operational needs. When not working at a…