Research Business Analyst - School of Chemical Sciences; College of LAS

Sponsored Research Business Analyst - School of Chemical Sciences (College of LAS) College of Liberal Arts & Sciences University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Job Summary

The Sponsored Research Business Analyst (SRBA) manages financial and regulatory aspects of sponsored research grants, contracts, and subcontracts throughout the sponsored project lifecycle in a nationally recognized top-volume research environment for the Departments of Chemistry and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering. The SRBA is a point-of-contact between principal investigators, department business office staff, and Sponsored Programs Administration, supporting the department's portfolio.

• Pre-Award:
  • Provide support and guidance to faculty in Chemistry and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering throughout the proposal submission process to federal and non-federal sponsors. This includes the interpretation and application of sponsor and campus guidelines, assisting with complex budget and budget justification preparation, and serving as a liaison between the faculty and SPA Pre-Award.
  • Work collaboratively with campus units, inter-disciplinary researchers, and business offices at UIUC and other institutions during both the application and award execution process.
  • Liaison between faculty and SPA through the processing of anticipated awards and the establishment of sponsored project accounts.
  • Assist incoming faculty to facilitate sponsored project transfers from other institutions and/or agencies.
• Post-Award:
  • Manage a post-award portfolio with an average of 60 active grants
  • Communicate with faculty throughout the life of the sponsored project.
  • Complete regular review of financial transactions, including equipment purchases and travel reimbursements, to ensure allowability and accuracy of transactions.
  • Review personnel appointment requests for alignment with project.
  • Complete monthly reconciliation of accounts. Proactively work with faculty to address potential issues.
  • Assist faculty in completing reporting requirements and requesting modifications to awards, such as no cost extensions.
  • Monitor awards to ensure compliance with terms and conditions, including faculty effort.
  • Review and process subaward invoices and awards. Initiate award modifications as needed.
  • Provide expenditure projections and forecast financial trends for faculty funding portfolios.
  • Complete timely closeout of awards.
  • Maintain required documents per University policy.
  • Assist with the preparation of materials for audit purposes and responses to audit findings.
  • Review and assist with progress reporting, while monitoring faculty efforts to ensure compliance with policies and award terms and conditions.
• General:
  • Research and analyze information and data. Take independent action to solve problems and exercise individual authority based upon the level of knowledge and professional experience.
  • Participate in continuing education opportunities or relevant professional certifications, including attending meetings and training to continue seeking best practices and policy information as it pertains to University, state, and federal regulations.

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, accounting, finance, economics or a field related to the position.
• Two years of professional experience in a university, research, government, or business environment.

• Two years of professional research administration experience.
• Illinois Certified Research Administrator certification.

• Strong background in accounting principles and business practices.
• Proficient use of accounting and reporting systems, such as BANNER, EDDIE, my Research Portal, various agency proposal submission systems, or equivalent ERP and financial management systems from outside of campus.
• Extensive working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Outlook.
• Proven effective organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills, including great attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated exceptional professional service skills, including discretion and professional judgment.
• Highly developed ability to communicate effectively with others.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
• Knowledge of administrative policies, rules, and regulations of sponsored projects.
• Knowledge of University business procedures.

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5040 - Grants and Contracts Associate position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the deadline date. The budgeted salary range for the position is $55,000 - $65,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. Hybrid work options may be available for this position after an initial on-site training period, with the ability to be on-site at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign campus as needed per the…