Research Grant Specialist

at  Red Deer Polytechnic

POSITION SUMMARY

The Division of Applied Research is excited to announce an opening for a dynamic and dedicated Research Grant Specialist. This critical role offers the unique opportunity to drive innovative research at Red Deer Polytechnic by managing all facets of research grant administration. As a key member of our team, you will work alongside expert researchers, facilitate novel projects across a range of disciplines, and contribute to innovations that have a real-world impact. This position is perfect for a highly organized professional with a passion for supporting research excellence and a keen eye for detail. Join us in our mission to advance knowledge and transform ideas into solutions.
The Research Grant Specialist is the leader of the research grant application process at Red Deer Polytechnic. Their work will increase the research funding awarded to members of the polytechnic community through improving application success rates and identifying and promoting research funding opportunities.
This position coordinates the submission of applications to research funding sponsors. They are responsible for the pre-award grant application process and provide strategic input to applicants on how to best fulfill grant requirements. The incumbent is responsible for analyzing and interpreting grant requirements and reviewing applications to ensure completeness and compliance with those requirements. This position is also one of the key contributors to the post-award grant coordination process.
The incumbent must have the ability to analyze, interpret and make recommendations in accordance with procedures and practices of both the Polytechnic and external organizations and must be flexible, demonstrate the ability to maintain confidentiality and work under pressure to meet tight deadlines. This individual will collaborate with colleagues across the institution to provide clarity and coaching on the grant administration cycle. The incumbent will report to administratively to the Director, Resiliency & Child Advocacy, but receive their day-to-day direction from the Applied Research Specialist.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Four (4) year undergraduate degree, or three (3) year undergraduate degree plus one full additional year of university in a related program representing four years of study or equivalent.
• Over three years experience in Research and/or Grant Administration
• Relevant experience working with a professional office team, ensuring confidentiality, integrity, diplomacy, professionalism, and tact at all times.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience managing academic grant applications at the provincial and federal level.
• Proven project management skills preferably in an academic environment.
• Demonstrated experience with leading effective and informative workshops.
• Proficiency in proofreading, grammar skills, attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Superb analytical and research skills with high attention to detail.
• Strong proficiency with computer software, including Microsoft Office.
• Strong understanding of budget and funding processes as they relate to grant and funding requests.
• Able to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Research Administration certificate
• Master’s degree or equivalent

Additional Duties

• Completes special projects as assigned such as procedure writing or large event planning.
• Assist the Division of Applied Research staff in research projects, as required.
• Monitors changes to external funder policies and requirements; analyzes for impact to RDP policies and procedures; collaborates with stakeholders across the institution to develop recommendations for changes to RDP policies and procedures.
• Performs other related duties as determined by the Division of Applied Research