Institutional Research Programs Officer, Post-Award

at  Western University

ABOUT US

Western Research provides strategic and administrative support to foster a culture of research excellence that enhances Western University’s profile on the global stage.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Graduate Degree - thesis based is preferred

Experience:

• 5 years experience in research environment or related business area
• Experience with research administration processes and systems
• Project management experience with projects involving research administration as a core activity is preferred
• Experience in an academic research environment would be an asset

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Sound knowledge of research administration policies and issues (related to an academic setting preferred)
• Sound knowledge of government research funding program policies, guidelines and procedures (such as CFI, ORF and NIH)
• Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of Ontario Research Fund budget development, forecasting, and reporting requirements
• Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of Canada Foundation for Innovation budget development, award finalization, and project monitoring requirements
• Working knowledge of project management principles and best practices
• Understanding of institutional polices on intellectual property, indirect costs, procurement, and research finance post-award grant management preferred
• Comprehensive knowledge of relevant research funding programs
• Mature judgement, analytical and problem-solving skills with a consultative and collaborative approach to resolving issues and addressing opportunities
• Advanced computer skills including spreadsheet design, word processing and database management
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with experience giving presentations to multiple stakeholders, creating reports and demonstrated ability to respond to inquiries from staff, faculty and members of external organizations
• Ability to prepare complex budgets, and management of financial reports
• Strong record of collaborative teamwork with the motivation and ability to work independently with little supervision, and within cross-functional teams
• Proven ability to multi-task and prioritize with an eye to consistently producing high- quality work and meeting deadlines in a demanding environment
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, interruptive environment while maintaining tact, diplomacy and professionalism
• Demonstrated analytical ability to understand, interpret, and effectively communicate complex guidelines, policies and procedures to key stakeholders

The Institutional Research Programs Officer, Post-Award supports research success at Western by providing proactive expertise in research administration and expertise in the delivery of research funding programs. The role provides post-award support of major institutional grants, special strategic initiatives, and other programs, as identified by the Director, Institutional Research Programs. The role ensures adherence and enforcement of the policies, procedures, and requirements of Western Research and all research funding sponsors.
The role supports researchers with the initiation of major research projects as detailed in applications or proposals, including budget development and finalization of funding agreements, particularly major institutional and strategic special initiatives. The role acts as a liaison to granting agencies on behalf of Western and Western’s researchers, and as a key point of contact for partner organizations. The role also acts as a link between Western Research teams, Research Finance, Procurement, Facilities Management and others to ensure timely work flow and initiation of external grants.