Research Administrator

Description

The Research Administrator provides high-level strategic coordination and administrative leadership for the Coon Laboratory in collaboration with the Metabolism Theme at the Morgridge Institute. This role will provide support to the Metabolism Theme and associated research groups as needed. This position manages day-to-day laboratory activities for the Coon group, oversees comprehensive research budgets, and facilitates collaborative research to advance the group’s mission. 

This role requires a highly organized, proactive professional capable of working independently while maintaining effective relationships across UW–Madison, the Morgridge Institute for Research, and external partners. The Research Administrator uses strong judgment, initiative, and creativity to support a complex scientific operation. 

Primary Responsibilities

· Research Management and Administration: 

o Manage administrative and operational activities using UW–Madison and Morgridge Institute systems and policies for the Coon laboratory and metabolism theme as needed. 

o Prepare and coordinate scientific and technical proposals for Coon laboratory, including administrative, budgetary, research, educational, and outreach components.

o Interpret and communicate federal, state, and university grant compliance requirements; ensure adherence to all applicable regulations.

o Develop, manage, and implement research budgets in compliance with institutional and sponsor guidelines.

o Conduct monthly post-award reviews with the PI to ensure appropriate spending and compliance.

o Work with UW and Morgridge accounting teams on award closeouts.

o Oversee preparation and submission of annual progress reports.

o Execute and oversee financial transactions—including expense reports, travel reimbursements, purchase orders, and invoice payments—and support resolution of administrative issues.

· Laboratory & Operational Support:

o Maintain capital equipment inventory for the research laboratory, support annual audits.

o Procure laboratory equipment and supplies and coordinate routine equipment calibration, maintenance, and repairs for laboratory. 

o Develop and maintain a comprehensive reference database tracking publications, collaborations, awards, patents, and trainee outcomes. Additionally, help support the public access compliance of papers that require it. 

o Update and maintain center websites and social media platforms to ensure a professional and consistent public presence.

o Ensure biosafety protocols are updated; track and ensure completion of all required safety training for laboratory personnel.

o Oversee compliance with regulations related to biohazards, laboratory safety, waste disposal, and effort certification.

o Submit MTAs, software agreements, and other research agreements for review through campus channels.

o Administrate project archive where all research data are stored. 

o Onboard and offboard trainees including lab access, laboratory resources, and appointments.

o Supervise students and volunteers engaged in non-scientific tasks in support of Coon laboratory operations.

· Scheduling, Communication and Event Support 

o Plan and support logistics for advisory board meetings, workshops, consortium meetings, site visits, invited seminars, and other program events.

o Act as liaison with on-campus and off-campus partners, facilities, and administrative units.

o Assist with posting job openings, managing personnel appointments, and initiating changes in support staff or project personnel.

· Other duties as assigned 

o Perform additional responsibilities as assigned to support the missions of Coon Laboratory, and metabolism theme. 

Requirements

To successfully perform this role, an individual must be able to carry out each primary duty effectively. The qualifications and requirements listed below reflect the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for this position. Reasonable accommodation will be provided, as appropriate, to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Education and Experience

· Bachelor’s degree in business, science, biotechnology, or a related field preferred.

· Minimum of three years of administrative experience required.

· Experience supporting day-to-day laboratory operations, including supply ordering, equipment maintenance, safety and biosafety oversight, record-keeping, and coordination with research staff.

· Working knowledge of NIH and NSF policies governing research proposals, awards, and allowable expenditures.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

· Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.

· Professional and effective communication with individuals at all organizational levels.

· Strong interpersonal skills, including exceptional oral and written communication abilities.

· Excellent organizational and time-management skills.

· Consistently demonstrates respect, integrity, and professionalism in decisions, communications, and actions.

· Experience in pre-award and post-award research administration.

· Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

· Proficiency in software and web-based applications, including Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.

· Experience with website development and management of social media platforms.

· Ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and professional levels.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

· Work is normally performed in an office setting

· No or very limited physical effort is required

· No or very limited exposure to physical risk